Add to favoritesOkay, everyone- whose New Year resolutions involve losing weight? No need to raise hands, we all know who we are, and we’re all probably groaning about all the kale we’ll have to eat and all the pasta we’ll miss out on. Cheer up, because weight loss is not all about deprivation. Keep reading and get in on some weight loss secrets that can make the journey a lot easier on you!
1. Drink water:
Drinking a lot of water is important when you’re trying to lose weight. Often we confuse thirst for hunger and eat when really, we’re just thirsty. So when you feel the munchies coming on, sip on a glass of water. Give up juice and sugary drinks that are full of calories and save those calories for food. Also be careful how much diet soda you drink- there are a lot of studies that show that even calorie-free sweeteners can spur cravings.
2. Watch your portions:
Many of us have no idea what a serving really is and eat larger portions than we should. So read about portion sizes on food packages and educate yourself about the food pyramid. A great way to avoid overeating is to eat your meals on smaller plates. You’ll eat less food but you’re plate will look full, which is a smart secret to feeling satisfied with less. Restaurant portions can be super large, so when you eat out you can share a meal with a friend or pack up half of it to take home.
3. Keep a food log:
This secret might be the smartest thing you can do when you’re trying to lose weight. You’ll know exactly what you eat each day and you’ll be able to see the pitfalls. The most important thing here is to be totally honest with yourself!
4. Move:
If you can get in a regular workout- great! If not, just sneak some movement into your regular routine. Park a little distance from your destination and walk the rest of the way, take the stairs instead of the elevator, and put on your sneakers and run errands by foot. Every little bit counts.
5. Don’t skip meals:
You might think skipping meals is a smart way to cut calories, but don’t do it! Staying satisfied and keeping your blood sugar steady are the keys to avoiding cravings and bingeing. Skipping meals will only make you feel hungry and puts you at risk of overeating later and making poor food choices. Eating regularly is also the secret to keeping your metabolism active, which is important when you want to lose weight.
6. Eat healthy snacks:
Regular, healthy snacks are just as important as meals. Just make sure to make smart and nutritious choices, such as an apple with almond butter, hummus and carrots, or a healthy smoothie. Keep little bags of nuts and whole grain crackers stashed in your car and handbag.
7. Make smart swaps:
You might not realize it, but things like mayo, croutons, and whole milk in your latte can really add on the calories. Make smart swaps like mustard, toasted nuts, and skim milk. Check out this post for smart food swaps that can save you calories.
8. Plan for treats:
No one wants to feel deprived and we all need a food treat once in a while. So plan for it and make it count! Watch out for portions and make sure you enjoy it- no guilt allowed!
9. Cook at home:
One of the smartest things you can do if you’re trying to lose weight is to cook your own food. That way you’ll know exactly what you’re eating and you can make sure it’s all right for you.
10. Mistakes happen:
No one is perfect and we all make mistakes. Yeah, you might overindulge here and there and it’s not the end of the world, so don’t give it all up for good! Just let it go and pick up where you left off. Remember that mistakes are an opportunity to learn and you’ll make better choices next time.
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