Losing weight isn’t easy, but many people make it even harder to achieve because of simple mistakes. Perhaps the most impactful mistake is assuming that following a weight loss program by yourself is more effective or easier than working with a doctor. In fact, patients are typically far more successful in reaching their weight loss goals when they seek help at a medical weight loss center in Mt. Kisco or the surrounding Westchester County. Your doctor will help you stay on track and avoid the following common mistakes.

Drinking Your Calories

It’s hard to give up habits, like your morning cappuccino or glass of wine at dinner. Take a few minutes to write down all the beverages you typically drink during the day. Then, cross zero-calorie beverages off your list, including water and sugar-free, black coffee. Estimate the calorie count of the remaining beverages and remind yourself of that number every time you get tempted to add whipped cream to your coffee shop beverage. Know that even beverages that seem healthy, like fruit smoothies, can significantly boost your calorie intake. Instead of drinking your fruit, choose whole fruit.

Failing to Get Enough Fiber

Fiber is crucial for good health in general and weight management. Unfortunately, many people cut back on fiber sources when they’re trying to lose weight. It’s definitely a good idea to limit your intake of pasta and bread, but you’ll need to make up for the lost fiber elsewhere in your diet. Increase your intake of beans and crunchy vegetables. Apples are also rich in fiber. Your doctor may suggest taking a fiber supplement to help fill in the gaps in your diet.

Drowning Vegetables in Salad Dressing

Salads have long been regarded as an essential staple of weight loss diets, but when it’s drowning in half a cup of olive oil, blue cheese, or Ranch dressing, an innocent-looking salad might contain more calories than you’ll burn at the gym. Try adding just a sprinkle of olive oil and vinegar, and grind fresh black pepper on top. Or, eat a deconstructed salad. Take whole, washed Belgian endive leaves and dip them in hummus. Hummus is also excellent for dipping pepper strips and carrot sticks, and it has enough flavor to make you forget you’re eating a healthy meal.