Monitoring progress

Most diets fail because we follow them for too little time or because, if we are honest, we are not really following them correctly.  Self-monitoring is crucial for success since it helps us spot dietary and exercise lapses quickly and then do something about them.  I recommend monthly follow-ups for weight and waist circumference.  Avoid standing on the scales every day because daily changes in fluid can mask short-term weight loss, particularly for women.

After a month on the Zotrim Way programme, repeat the diet diary and physical activity checklist to find out if you have maintained the changes you decided to make.  Keep monitoring your progress every 2-3 months as it is easy to lapse into old habits, particularly after Christmas or a holiday.  It is worth emphasising that self-monitoring means you only really have yourself to answer to.  There is no need to share the information with family or friends.  The more honest you are with yourself, the more successful you will be at making the necessary changes to your diet and lifestyle.