Gaining weight is so easy and can taste so good. That is until you start to realize that your pants are too tight, your shirts are bursting and even your underwear are getting into places the do not belong. It can be hard to figure out what weight loss tips are good and what tips will turn into the latest “get skinny” fad.
In order to start losing weight, you have to find some motivation to start as well as keep going. Maybe you’re getting married, or maybe your ex is. Maybe you’re going on vacation or just possible your doctor said you needed to shed some pounds. Of course, for most of us, we get upset when we can not zip our pants and decide something needs to be done.
You will need your motivation to help you get into action. If you want to improve your diet, you need to eliminate all of the junk food. In the beginning it is too easy to slip up, so you need to throw away all of the sweets, chips, sodas and other junk foods in your house. It may be a good idea to get rid of the fattening condiments and beverages as well.
Since the pantry and fridge are empty, it is time to go shopping. This might be a new concept for you, but you need to fill that grocery cart with fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, whole grains and low fat condiments. You will still be able to prepare some of your favorite meals and substitute low fat options as well as lean turkey and chicken instead of beef.
Now to the best parts, cooking and eating. While cooking, eliminate as much additional fat as you can. Stick with extra virgin olive oil, and use it sparingly, if you even need it. Limit your carbohydrate intake, going without garlic bread won’t ruin your meal.
You may have followed all of the previous instructions, but the next bit of information is the most important. Portion control. You can not lose pounds if you stuff yourself with anything, whether it be chips or carrots. Reduce your portion size, eat slowly and stop eating the moment you feel full.
A good way to stay on top of portion control is to start using smaller plates and bowls. Do not load them up high, that is defeating the purpose. Pay attention to how much you are eating and when you have had enough. If you eat too quickly, you’re likely to over stuff yourself every time. When dining out, limit the amount of appetizers, soup and salad you eat because it is all just filler. Ask your waiter to bring you a doggy bag with your meal. When you get your food, place half of it into the doggy bag and only eat what you have on your plate.
In order to lose the pounds at a better rate, it important to burn some calories. Take the dog for a walk, ride your bike to the store and build up a sweat. Do not worry about going overboard, but it is alright to push yourself a little bit. The more you do, the more you will be able to do and the more energy you will have.
Now that you are on your way to becoming a little smaller and a little healthier, remember not to go too hard on yourself. Reward yourself every once in a while, but pay attention to what is going into your body. Drink plenty of water each day, limit caffeine intake and stay positive. Check with your doctor if you have any concerns or preexisting health issues and start losing weight today. Remember, a good weight loss plan will have you losing about one to two pounds a week. Use it as a guide and make adjustments when needed.
It can be difficult to lose weight if you lack confidence in the first place and therefore one of the best tips that I can give you to lose weight successfully is to learn how to be confident first. It will make a huge difference to the success of your weight loss. Check out how to Boost Your Self Confidence now.