Losing 20 lbs. takes a bit of discipline and some direction, but nearly any weight-loss journey can be accomplished weight the proper diet. Food is fuel. Eating foods that will fuel the body will keep you energized for performance and keep you losing weight and reaching your weight-loss goals.
Whole Foods
Eating a clean diet is important for losing weight because whole foods are nutrient-dense foods that provide the body with essential vitamins while remaining low in calories. Fresh fruits and vegetables help fuel the body because they are filled with vitamins and nutrients. These foods are a common snack for weight loss because they are low in calories. Whole grains are also needed in the diet because they are filled with fiber. Fiber-filled foods will help keep the body full and prevent over eating. Lean meats are also needed in a diet because they provide protein to the body and help build and repair muscles.
Portion Control
Portion control is key in losing weight. All foods can be eaten as long as they are eaten in moderation. Depriving yourself of foods you enjoy is not the answer when you are trying to lose weight. Instead, eat these foods on occasion and in small portions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, portion sizes continue to increase, which increases the waistline. Eat half portions when you eat out, read food labels when you eat in and skip seconds to reduce overeating.
Frequency
Eating often is key for losing weight. Keeping the body fueled is important for weight loss because not eating often enough can lead to overeating later. When you do not eat often, your metabolism can slow down. Also, if the body goes for hours without eating, you are more likely to overeat at your next meal. Eating six small meals a day will keep the metabolism up and keep hunger in line.
Liquid Calories
Many drinks simply are empty calories, meaning that they do not provide any nutritional value. Instead they simply provide unwanted calories. Drinks like soda, sugary sports drinks and juices still have calories in them. It is better to drink water or keep track of the calories that you consume. Avoid alcohol. According to the Mayo Clinic, too much of any kind of alcohol can lead to weight gain.
Bad Fats
Eliminating processed foods will help you drop weight easily. Processed foods contain trans fats, which are unhealthy. Avoiding junk food like cookies, cakes and chips will also help you cut down on these fats. Avoiding saturated fat will also help with weight loss. Saturated fats are found in animal products like whole milk and red meats. Choose low-fat dairy products and lean meats to rid saturated fat from your diet.
Member Comments