While dieting feels as though it should be something relatively straightforward, when it comes time to put a strategy into practice, it doesn’t take long to discover why super-great weight loss tips can make all the difference.
Even if you’re following a diet plan, there is a learning curve and once you’ve accomplished that, there are issues such as motivation, plateaus and slow metabolisms that need to be overcome.
With the right weight loss tips on your side, you can leap over those hurdles and keep yourself on the right track not only until you reach your goal, but also into the future so the pounds never find their way back again.
Check out the following 10 most helpful weight loss tips and consider using them to spike the effectiveness of your own strategy:
Lose the denial mindset – Stop thinking about your diet in terms of denying yourself foods. Instead, think of it in terms of adding new foods! Boost the number of yummy healthy foods you know you love like blueberries, sweet cherries and snap peas. Toss extra veggies into every meal. They’re easy to add to sauces, soups, stews, chili and as quick sides.
Stop scheduling workouts – When you have to face “exercises” every day, it’s amazing how busy your life will become in order to have an excuse to avoid having to do them. Don’t think of your physical activity as a workout. Instead, think of it as doing something active that you love. Ride your bike, make snow angels, head out for a hike or go for a run in the park with the dog. Make it a normal and fun part of your day
Walk more – Walking is one of the best and easiest ways to keep fit. You don’t need special gear or skills. You just need to head outside. Go with a friend every morning to catch up on the latest gossip. Even ten minutes a few times a day will make a difference.
Choose lighter versions – You don’t have to give up all the foods you love. Just choose lighter versions. Calorie reduced and fat free options can make a big difference.
Drink water – You’ve heard it time and time again and it’s still true. Hydration reduces your appetite. You will still be hungry at meal time, but not as much as you would be otherwise!
Split restaurant meals – The typical American restaurant serves far more food than you need. So pick something fantastic and split it with a friend! While you’re at it, you’ll save money.
Use TV time wisely – if you want to enjoy your favorite programs but can’t fit them in while keeping up your activity level, then why not do them both at the same time? Watch TV while you walk on the treadmill, ride a stationary bike or even just dance around to the music in your head!
Shrink your plates – Larger plates actually encourage us to eat more food. Either buy a set of smaller plates or use your side plates for your entrees. It will give your brain the signal that you have more food than you do. Even if you have a second helping, you’ll likely eat less than you would if you used larger plates.
Get social – Put family dinners back on the menu and use the time to talk about everybody’s day and about recent issues of interest. Taking longer to eat will give your body time to register when it’s full before you’ve eaten a huge helping.
Focus on the long term – This means that you can give yourself permission to be patient, have a treat now and again, and enjoy achieving short-term goals. After all, as long as you’re living healthfully overall, you’re doing great!
These weight loss tips are capable of taking you all the way to your goals!