Weight Loss Is Gain for Your Feet

At Weil Foot & Ankle Institute, we know many people are looking to lose the extra weight they put on with all the festive parties and family dinners that took place over the holidays, and our Lake, Cooke and Roselle-Dupage county patients are no exception. While your primary motivation may be to look good and fit into your favorite jeans, we want patients to know that losing excess pounds can be a great help to your feet. Many podiatric conditions including plantar fasciitis, arthritis and sesamoiditis can all be caused or made worse by being overweight. The most successful weight loss programs require you to make changes you can live with long-term. Below are some small and simple steps you can take to lose weight and keep it off in the New Year.

More is less—it may seem counterintuitive, but eating more often may actually help you lose weight. Does this scenario sound familiar? You’re trying to “be good” and eat next to nothing all day. When it’s time for dinner you’re so hungry that you graze halfway through the fridge before the healthy meal you’re preparing is ready. Low calorie, high energy snacks like fruit, especially when accompanied by a small amount of fat–try 1/8 of a cup of nuts–can help you feel full and satisfied between meals.

Trick yourself with smaller plates—if you start with a smaller plate, you’ll naturally reduce the amount of food you eat. Try to arrange your food so that half your plate is covered with vegetable or salad, a quarter is lean protein and a quarter is a starch or carb.

Doggie bag please—most of the time when we’re out with friends, it really isn’t about how much we eat. To avoiding mindlessly cleaning your plate, ask for a take-home box as soon as your food is served and pack half to take home. Not only will you not miss it, but you’ll also have lunch for the next day ready to go.

Slow your roll—eating more slowly gives your brain a chance to register that you’ve eaten and to send a signal to your stomach that you’re full. Try putting your fork down between bites. Eat one chip, nut, or cracker at a time, not a whole handful. Chew food slowly and longer before swallowing.

If you are experiencing foot pain, losing weight may help, but it’s still important to get any discomfort checked at our Bannockburn, Orland Park, Roselle or any of our other 16 conveniently located offices. Our podiatrists will diagnose your foot issue promptly and prescribe the correct treatment. Contact us today by calling 847-390-7666.