Great Weight Loss Tips

Weight loss is such a common pursuit that many companies have made fortunes from advertising pills and various diets that promise to help you lose weight quickly. While some of these methods might prove effective, for you, they can also be dangerous and cause you to gain weight back when you stop the diet. The most reliable weight loss tips are those that involve eating a healthy diet and getting adequate exercise each day.

Get Enough Sleep

Getting too little sleep can actually cause you to gain weight. According to TheDietChannel.com, a lack of sleep increases the amount of overeating you do. The channel recommends getting between approximately seven to nine hours of sleep each night for optimal weight loss success.

Eat Small Meals

One good way to lose weight is by eating small meals frequently. This helps keep your metabolism strong. A good schedule for eating for those who work regular nine to five days are meals at 7:30 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 4:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Make lunch (your 12:30 p.m. meal) your largest meal, as this is the time of day when your digestion is the strongest.

Get Rid of Temptations

Clear your home of any food temptations like chocolates, pastries, cookies and chips. Replace these foods with healthier food items like fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, beans and low or non-fat dairy products (milk, cheese and yogurt).

Set Realistic Weight Loss Goals

Make sure your weight loss goals are measurable and appropriate for your size and physical capability. Focus on performing specific activities rather than on how much weight you desire to lose.

Eat Mindfully

Take your time to eat your food. Chew slowly (try to take 30 seconds to chew each mouthful) and allow yourself to savor the food. Try to pause from eating for approximately five minutes when you are halfway finished with your meal. Mindful eating ensures that you are better able to listen and respond to your body's signals of feeling full.

Exercise

Do weight training and cardiovascular exercises at your local gym at least three times per week for between 30 to 60 minutes per session. You can also take brisk walks, do gardening, mow your lawn and do other types of yard work regularly. It helps to sustain your physical fitness routines by choosing to do exercises you really enjoy. Examples of exercises you can try for enjoyment and sustainability include running, practicing yoga, hiking, rock climbing, and team sports like baseball, soccer and football.

References

Article reviewed by David Lee Last updated on: Feb 26, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments