Losing Weight – Top Tips

If you know that you could benefit from losing weight, you are probably looking for some top tips to help you get started with your weight loss plan and also to stay on track once you’ve got going. Here is some expert advice that will assist in shedding those excess pounds.

Always Eat Breakfast

Many people who are trying to lose weight skip breakfast because they think they could benefit from eating fewer calories in the morning. However, this is actually counterintuitive. The less you eat in the morning, the more likely you are to snack during the day due to hunger. You’ll also be missing out on key nutrients that you need to keep your going. It’s vital, therefore, to always make time to eat a healthy and nutritious breakfast such as some wholemeal toast with reduced-fat spread or some unsweetened breakfast cereal with fruit.

Eat Regularly

If you can eat at a regular time each day, you’ll end up burning calories more rapidly. Not only that, but you’ll be less likely to eat sugary and fatty snacks.

Include Lots Of Fruits And Vegetables In Your Meals

Vegetables and fruits are low in fat and calories while also being rich in fibre. Their mineral and vitamin content is vital for well-being, so make sure you get your five a day.

Stay Active

An active lifestyle is very important if you want to lose weight and maintain your healthy new physique. Many of us have sedentary jobs today, so finding ways to work out outside of work is essential. Regular exercise not only offers a host of health benefits but it can also burn excess calories which can’t be cut out through your diet alone. The key is to find a fun activity which you enjoy and which fits into your schedule.

Stay Hydrated

Often, you think you’re hungry but in fact it’s thirst you’re experiencing. There’s no need to snack and load up on calories when in fact you could be just as satisfied with a drink of refreshing water. If you’re feeling peckish try having a glass of water first to see if you were actually just thirsty and not hungry at all.

Eat Plenty Of Fibre

Foods which are rich in fibre help you feel satisfied and full. This will help you to lose weight in the long run since you will eat less overall. Fibre can only be found in plant-based foods like vegetables, fruits, wholegrains, beans, lentils, peas and oats, so make sure to include plenty of these foods in your daily diet.

Check The Packaging

If you’re buying packaged food, make sure to always check the labels before you eat. Check for hidden sugars and fats as well as the total calorie count so you can select the healthiest options for you.

Choose Smaller Plates

One clever trick which really works to reduce your portion size is to switch to a smaller dinner plate. If you have a huge plate which is only half-full of food, you’ll automatically feel unsatisfied. If you put the same amount of food on a smaller plate or bowl, you’ll feel less deprived. Remember that your stomach will take approximately 20 minutes to let your brain know that it is full, so try to slow down your pace and stop before you think you’re full.

Never Make Any Food Taboo

If you ban any food from your diet you’ll just end up craving them even more. Allow yourself occasional treats that fit into your daily allowance of calories.

Don’t Buy Junk

One of the easiest ways to avoid the temptation of snacking on junk is to just avoid having it in the house. Eliminate chocolate, crisps, sugary drinks and biscuits from your shopping list and instead stock up on healthy alternatives like unsweetened popcorn, fruit juice, fruit and oat cakes.

Reduce Your Alcohol Consumption

Most people enjoy a glass of beer or wine in the evening, however it’s important to remember that these empty calories can cause weight to creep on. Keep alcohol to an occasional treat.

Plan Healthy Meals

If you leave your meal planning to the last minute, you’ll be more likely to go for an unhealthy option such as a frozen ready meal or a takeaway. Plan all your meals for the entire week in advance, taking your daily calorie allowance into account so you can make sure you have everything in stock for your meals each day.

Follow these expert tips and you’ll find that over time the excess pounds can be shed and you’ll enjoy a healthier, slimmer lifestyle.