A weight-loss journey should be about preserving a happy and healthy lifestyle while shedding a few pounds. You can achieve weight loss in multiple ways, including regularly exercising, eating and drinking right, and practicing self-care.
At times you may feel like you’re not reaping the benefits of your efforts and may want to change your routine. Well, don’t worry because help is at hand. According to nutritionists, your eating habits can considerably change your weight loss effort. Here are four practical tips to help.
Keep a Food Journal or Diary
Research shows that people who write down what they eat lose twice as much as people who don’t. Seeing what you eat will make you accountable and pay more attention to what you’re eating.
Fill Your Plate with Steamed Veggies
Vegetables are extremely low in calories. Swap unhealthy ingredients for tasty vegetables seasoned with lemon and zesty spices for a nutritious and delicious meal. Lemon and spices rather than dressing and butter will keep your veggies low in calories and add phytonutrients. Phytonutrients can help fight inflammation, which is linked to weight gain.
Apply the “Every-Other-Day” Rule When Drinking Alcohol
What is the “every-other-day” rule, you might ask? It restricts the calories you consume several days a week, then you can eat whatever you like on your non-restriction day. For example, you could limit the amount of alcohol you would usually consume on your restriction day. You could do this by drinking a non-caloric drink in between an alcoholic one.
Avoid Indulging in Treats When You’re Hungry
Many of us fancy eating something sweet after a meal when it doesn’t satisfy us. To un-train habits like looking forward to a post-meal treat or snack, try eating your favorite snacks when you don’t feel like eating them. This creates an association of not enjoying treats as much. Setting yourself up to potentially overeat may sound a bit extreme; however, it can make a real difference after just a few tries.
And there you have it. To improve your weight loss results, pay attention to what you eat, eat more veggies, drink less alcohol, and treat yourself when you’re not in the mood.