Quick Weight Loss = Saggy Skin

May 18, 2014

We are all in such a hurry, we want what we want when we want it and that’s now!

As I listen to friends and clients I have come to realize that the one factor in their goals of fitness, strength, speed, weight loss or gain…is the factor of time. It takes time, so planning for goals must revolve around the time it takes to reach them.

A friend called me a few days ago and said, “I have to lose 30 pounds by mid-June for a very special event.” My response was honest, but not very well received. “Yikes, that is actually only about 5 weeks away and not a safe bet at all.” I then went on to explain that safe, effective weight loss takes time. Truly a 1 to 1.5 pound loss of body weight a week is a sustainable goal…thus my friend should have started 20 weeks ago. We are still friends but I think he is going to try starving himself and roll the dice.

Here are 5 fun facts about how to avoid saggy skin.

For one thing I recommend losing weight gradually. Although you may be impatient to drop the pounds, a gradual weight loss at about a pound or two a week can prevent the saggy skin from forming. The muscles will hold the skin tighter to it and skin will remain flush against the lean tissue to remain shapely.

Secondly, make time to lift weights! Many people who try to lose a large amount of weight have a tendency to focus on cardio exercises. Yet, if you weight train as well, you are going to build muscle and keep your body firm. Muscle is your metabolism! Muscle moves the bones, shapes the body, and is the motor inside your skin that burns the fat. If you do not know how to lift weights safely, visit me today… F.I.T. today!

Another point of losing weight without skin problems and my third point if interest is hydration. The skin is our largest organ and if our bodies are not properly hydrated the inside organs (muscles, bones, heart, liver…) will dehydrate your skin out from the outside in. So drink your 6-8 glasses of water daily to keep the skin soft, pliable, and smooth. Hydration will help keep the skin free of wrinkles or puckering with a nice even tone. After all our skin is our exterior cover and should fit like a glove.

Let’s not (four) forget food. Eat muscle-building foods. Protein menu options and healthy carbs, like fruits, vegetables and whole grains, can help you build muscle and prevent saggy skin. You are what you eat…don’t be a Twinkie!

And finally, (five) find time to moisturize. Why do you think the skincare industry is making millions on ‘skin-toning lotions’ in every store and on every TV channel? Rub your skin with what it needs; SPF sun protection, moisturizer, lubrication…all products that aid in the skins ability to be flexible to the harsh sun or drying effects of aging.

Did you notice one of the things I did not suggest or mention was surgery? Spend your time working on a lifestyle that promotes health and wellness. The journey will be very satisfying and last a lifetime.

In good health,

Bob

“I wouldn’t want to be 20 now. I know so much more, and I’m much more comfortable in my skin, saggy as it is. … When I hear young girls complaining about superficial things … You’re at the peak of your physical beauty right now! Just enjoy it and stop worrying about your thighs being too big. If you’re upset with how you look at 25, life’s going to be tough.”
—Susan Sarandon