The Triple Imperative: The Foundation of Phase 2

The Triple Imperative: The Foundation of Phase 2

While Phase 2 has flexibility for you to eat a wide variety of foods, there are 3 core behaviors, which we call "The Triple Imperative," that we've found to be most effective for long term weight management...

 

The Triple Imperative

Maintaining structure and healthy routines in Phase 2 is going to make it much easier for you to stay on track to achieve your weight and health goals, and the Triple Imperative provides that structure without making things too complicated. Your daily goals are to:

1. Eat at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables. 

Fruits and vegetables are among the healthiest foods you can eat. They are naturally low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. They also add fiber and volume to your meals, which helps you stay full for longer. That's why we encourage eating lots of produce. Get Fruit & Vegetable Tips.

2. Use HMR foods—we recommended about 2 per day. 

We all know we have to eat healthy to manage our weight and health, but having to plan, shop, and prep healthy food every day can be overwhelming. Fast food is easier. Eating out is easier. But there's another kind of fast food that will help you stay on track... portion- and calorie-controlled, pre-packaged foods (commonly called meal replacements) can be your secret weapon for successful weight loss and long-term weight maintenance. And HMR Shakes, Entrees, Soup, Cereal, and Bars are the best tasting ones out there (in our humble opinion). Get HMR Food Tips.

3. Move your body—aim to burn at least 300 calories per day, or 2,000 per week.

Physical activity is a key behavior that we focus on in the HMR Program because regular exercise supports many aspects of your physical and mental health. Having a physical activity routine is also key for long-term weight management, so we're here to help you build more activity into your life, no matter where you're starting from. Get Exercise Tips

 

Your "Personal Triple"

Let's face it, different people deal with different challenges, and some days are harder than others. 

Your "Personal Triple" means you might need to practice higher levels of the Triple Imperative whenever you need more structure—which can help you stay on track during challenging times.

For example, if there is a day you are particularly hungry, or just feeling like you need to eat, having an extra Shake or Entree, or adding more fruits or veggies might help you feel more grounded in your goals. Or adding more physical activity once you've developed a routine that you're comfortable with can help you get stronger and stay challenged.

The bottom line is to find what works for you!

 

Why HMR Foods in Phase 2?

HMR foods are more than just "diet food." They are convenient and filling for not a lot of calories, making them a perfect go-to when you want a quick and easy meal or snack.

For example, an HMR Shake made with a cup of frozen fruit each morning and an HMR Entree with vegetables at lunch may be the perfect tools to help you maintain your weight nutritiously, without ever having to think too much about it!