Weight loss works best when you break it down into small lifestyle changes that fit seamlessly into your life. As these changes stick and become habit, you can add more changes until living a healthy lifestyle and controlling your weight comes naturally. The more easy and quick tips you have under your belt, the less time you'll spend worrying about what you're doing and the easier your weight-loss efforts become.
Never Skip Breakfast
Breakfast gives you the opportunity to rev up your metabolism and set the tone for the rest of the day's food choices. When you skin breakfast, it sets you up for a downward spiral of hunger and potential overeating. Focus on lean protein and fiber at breakfast to keep you full until lunch.
Always Bring a Snack
You can learn a lot from the Boy Scout motto "be prepared." When you have healthy foods with you at all times, you can turn to them instead of vending machines and fast-food restaurants. Regular snacking also helps you eat less at mealtime, because you don't approach your meals from a place of extreme hunger. Keep nuts and low-fat granola bars in your work desk. Carry fat-free cheese sticks or pieces of fruit in your purse, briefcase or gym bag.
Make Meals in Advance
Pick a day and make your week's meals in advance. Chop your fruits and vegetables, bag up snacks, cook meals and store half in the refrigerator and half in the freezer. You'll appreciate having these healthy options already made after a long, tiring day at work when it would be easier to order pizza than cook.
Pick Exercises You Enjoy
You're more likely to stick to your routine if you look forward to doing it. Pick social activities like sports teams and group fitness classes if the social component appeals to you. Hike or run outdoors if you're a nature enthusiast. Play with your kids in the back yard. There are more ways to get active than going to the gym.
Get Plenty of Sleep
You need seven to nine hours of sleep each night for your body to rest and repair itself. You also need sleep for healthy weight loss. According to a 2004 study in the "Annals of Internal Medicine," men who didn't sleep enough reported increased appetite. Lack of sleep may also interfere with hormone levels that contribute to weight gain.
Get a Buddy
Pick a friend or family member with a similar weight loss goal and pair up. Keep each other motivated when one person doesn't want to work out. Share healthy meals and recipes, and offer a listening ear during the tough moments of your journey.
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