Every January many people resolve to lose weight but unfortunately many are unsuccessful in their efforts. Here are some easy tips to follow to help start you on the path to healthier living and fat loss.
- Keep a food journal. Many people falsely believe they are eating way less than they actually do. By writing it all down you will have an accurate account of how much you consume each day. This also helps to plan your daily meals in advance, which has been shown to help people better adhere to their eating plan.
- Beware of labels that state a food is "non-fat" or "low-fat". This does not mean "sugar-free". High sugar consumption spikes the blood sugar which gives temporary satisfaction but increases the appetite for more sugar later in the day.
- Eat more raw foods. The more foods you consume in their natural state the more nutritious the food and the more satiated you will feel throughout the day. Additionally, raw foods (meaning fruits, vegetables, raw nuts, raw seeds, and sprouted grains) help give your body what it needs to be healthy.
- Get more sleep. Studies have shown that people who regularly get less than 7 hours of sleep per night tend to be heavier.
- Increase your intake of Omega 3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish. This increases the natural serotonin levels which help curb the appetite and help to keep carb cravings at bay.
- Drink green tea. Studies have shown this increases the body's fat-burning abilities.
- Decrease or eliminate alcohol consumption. Besides the empty calories, alcohol also slows the metabolism.
- Exercise. This means daily cardiovascular activity as well as strength training. Cardiovascular exercise increases the function and health of the heart while strength training increases lean body mass which helps the body burn more calories even after the workout is done.
- Try juicing. Replacing a meal a day with freshly juiced fruits and vegetables gives you a high nutrient meal that is also low calorie.
- Eat several small meals each day and don't skip meals. Eating frequently keeps the metabolic fires burning while skipping meals tends to make you ravenous later in the day, making it much more likely to over eat.
- Drink more water. One of the simplest things you can do. Drinking water keeps the body hydrated. When you are dehydrated it is easy to mistake hunger for thirst.
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