The hardest part about getting older is weight gain. We lose time as our responsibilities grow and the gym is one of the last thoughts in our mind. There are many ways to lose weight with only a little exercise involved. No matter what they tell you, no diet plan is truly successful if it does not involve you being active. You can not sit on your couch and lose weight, and there are many other ways to help you on your weight loss journey. The following are just a few tips to help you lose weight successfully.
Never Skip Breakfast
It’s the most important meal of the day, literally. Eating breakfast provides essential nutrients for your body so that you can get through the day. It is not suggested that you eat a large breakfast, but eating something like eggs, can help to curve cravings throughout the day.
Eat Regularly
Make sure that you are eating your meals at a regular time every day. Eating at regular times throughout the day helps to burn calories faster. This also helps to prevent cravings that are high in sugar and fats. Make sure that you are not eating very early or very late as this is also very bad for weight. Your body does not process foods as well early in the morning or while you’re sleeping.
Eat Your Fruits and Vegetables
Fruit and vegetables are essential to weight loss. You should be substituting these for foods that are high in fat, sugary, or salty. For example, order steamed vegetables instead of fries with your meal. Fruits and vegetables are high in fiber which is very helpful for weight loss. They also have many vitamins and minerals which are great for your body.
Be More Active
Being active is essential to weight loss. As stated above, those lose weight quick diets that involve no exercise really don’t work. If you are looking for long term results, you will want to start being more active. I’m not saying that you have to go out and get a gym membership but change small things in your life. If you have a dog, take them for a slightly longer walk each day, you’ll both love that. Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator. Walk to work, if possible, instead of driving. These are just simple changes in your life that can create a big difference in the long run.
Drink Water
Our bodies are made of 60% water, we need to stay hydrated. By drinking water, you can also help to curve cravings. Most of the time when you are hungry and looking for that late afternoon snack, drinking water can be sufficient for filling you up. Many times, thirst is confused with hunger, but water is a no calorie way to fill yourself up at those awkward in between meal times.
High Fiber Foods are Great
High fiber foods can help you to feel full for longer. If you are someone who gets constant cravings try eating high fiber foods. Fiber is found in almost all foods. You can find an extensive list online, but here are just a few examples, oats, beans, peas, fruits, vegetables, and much more. If you start to incorporate these types of foods into your diet, while getting rid of salty, fatty, and sugary foods, you are sure to see a difference in your weight.
Look at What You Are Eating
Be aware of what is going into your body. Make sure that you are reading labels on foods. Many foods that claim to be healthy, still contain a lot of trans-fats and sugars. Make sure that you are actually eating healthy foods. Healthy foods are all the rage, but not everything that says it is good for you is actually good for. Make sure that these foods fit into your daily calorie intake.
Here’s a Trick…
If you use smaller plates, you will be better able to portion control. When you first start portion controlling it can look like there is nothing on your plate. By using a smaller plate, it will be less striking as you start eating less food. Remember to also eat slowly as it takes a while for the brain to realize that your stomach is full. By eating slower, it will help to prevent you from wanting to eat more food than what you are trying to portion for.
Never Ban Foods
Once you start banning foods, the more you will want to eat them. Your cravings for things like cookies will get even worse if you are banning them. I don’t suggest keeping them in your home, but the idea that the food is completely banned will make you struggle with your cravings. Also, there’s no reason that you can’t have a treat every once in a while.
Put Healthy Foods in Your Home
As stated above, it is not suggested to keep junk food in your home. If you are keeping only healthy foods within your home, you are more likely to only eat them. When they are your only option, then you will also be forced to start eating healthy foods. It is an easy trick to help you start eating healthy. Don’t be afraid to keep at least one non-healthy food in your home, as your cravings are sure to flare in the beginning of your diet. Just don’t engorged yourself with your junk food.
Are You a Drinker?
Even if you enjoy the occasional weekend out, it is better for your diet if you cut down on alcohol. Studies have shown that an occasional drink during the week can be beneficial to your health but be careful as many alcoholic beverages are high in sugar.
Meal Planning
It is very helpful if you take one night a week and meal plan. This can help you to make healthy meals that are in the right portions. Make sure that you make enough for a whole week at a time, so it does not become a chore, or you miss a few days if you are busy.
