Like millions of others, you might be thinking about losing weight. Whether you've got five pounds or 50 to spare, chances are at some point you thought, "I'll start tomorrow." However, you might find that with your new, slim figure comes a few downsides:
Changing relationships. No matter how supportive your close pals are, someone is bound to be jealous of your weight loss. "You may find that some of your friends have difficulty being around you because you have achieved something they have yet to accomplish," says Colin F. Watson, author of How to Feel Good Naked in 26 Days. You might find people telling you you're losing too much weight or encourage you to indulge in "forbidden" foods. Stay strong and lead by example.
Budgeting for a new wardrobe. Laying out thousands for clothing is one downside of losing weight. While certain items—think tight jeans—definitely need replacing, you can get by with a little creativity with others. What to invest in? Tunic tops, which work with you as you're slimming down. Leggings, particularly dark ones, are flattering and go well with tunic tops or dresses. Belts can do wonders for an emerging waistline-get a couple in varying thicknesses and colors to cinch in oversized shirts. Finally, if you invested in expensive slacks or skirts, spend the money to have them tailored to your new figure. It will still cost less than buying new ones.
Loose skin. Raw-food coach and author Susan Schenck is thrilled to have lost more than 30 pounds over the past few years and loves how she looks in clothes. Out of them, however, is a different story. "I have some loose skin on my arms and thighs, which makes me look older on those parts of my body," Schenck says. When you lose significant poundage, excess skin can be a problem. Consider body-contouring surgery, in which surgeons remove excess skin and tighten what's left.
Enhanced expectations. Once you've achieved your goal weight, you have to work harder to stay at it. Part of this is that a lighter person simply burns fewer calories than a heavier person, and you'll need to mentally commit to being slim. "Every day becomes a conscious battle of good or bad food choices," Watson explains. "This forces you to face your demons and choose to make your new, healthy lifestyle choices stick."
Sources:
Cleveland Clinic, www.myclevelandclinic.com
Colin F. Watson, www.hcgbodyforlife.com
Susan Schenck, Lac, www.livefoodfactor.com
StyleBakery, www.stylebakery.com
