Forward this email to your team so they can benefit from the tips, tricks and resources.
Weight loss 101
Restrictive diets and extreme weight-loss programs may seem like the quickest way to reach your goal weight. But research shows losing weight at a steady rate and making lasting lifestyle changes is the best way to keep the pounds off long-term.
The Mayo Clinic recommends a few strategies to start and succeed on your weight-loss journey:
Take stock of your starting point (including weight, habits and stress) and make a commitment to change. It takes time and effort, so check in with yourself to make sure you’re up to the challenge.
Find what motivates you to lose weight and ways to stay accountable, either with yourself or through support from others.
Set realistic goals. These could be action goals (for example, walking 30 minutes per day). Or they could be outcome goals (for example, aiming to lose one pound per week).
Find enjoyable ways to work healthy foods into your diet. Limit highly processed, sugary foods that have a lot of calories but don’t keep you full.
Remember that being active helps you feel better physically and mentally. It burns calories, and can improve your mood and lower your stress levels.
Keep a positive and healthy mindset. Don’t give up if you’re feeling discouraged. A healthy body and life are worth it.
Hear from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan health coach James Steinhebel to learn more about kicking off your weight loss in this on-demand webinar.
Make sure you record your team’s weight-loss progress (loss or gain) today at bcbsm.com/yourhealth. For the most accurate results, we recommend your team members weigh themselves on the same day and around the same time each week. If you have an issue submitting your weight, contact Catherine Passmore at WinByLosing@bcbsm.com.
Weekly Blue Cross Virtual Well-Being sessions
This week’s Blue Cross Virtual Well-Being webinar is Sweeten Your Knowledge About Sugar. Ally Quennville joins Cindy Bjorkquist and Marissa Jarrett to provide a better understanding of sugar, including how to decode food labels, reduce overall sugar intake and beat those pesky cravings.
A Healthier Michigan podcast
Host Chuck Gaidica is joined by dietitian Shanthi Appelö to discuss strategies for snacking smarter when you’re on the go on this podcast.
We’re happy to help you with any questions or concerns you may have. Please reach out to us here, and someone from our team will reach out to you directly. If you would like to directly speak to a customer service representative, please call the number listed on the back of your ID card.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
