It does not address what one does when that level is achieved. What many Americans do is return to normal consumption patterns and, thus, initiate another weight-gain cycle. The pounds your patients remove creep back on and in many cases exceed the level before the original diet was started. We must teach our patients that life does not have to consist of meal-replacement drinks or dehydrated food. Four concepts should be emphasized when instructing your patients about low-fat, natural foods, and good foods.
People can eat as much as they want as long as it is the correct food.
A meal that is low in fat and high in complex carbohydrates can leave one fuller with fewer calories, and those calories are nutrient dense. Bad foods are bad. Cookies, ice cream, and foods of this type are high in fat and sugar and should not be called treats, or used as a reward system for your patients or their children. Most people get the majority of their calories from approximately 15 foods. Ask your patients to write down what they have had for the last four or five breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks throughout the day, and this will give you a general idea of their main calorie sources.