20 ways to lose weight
1. Take one step at a time
Start by paying attention to what you eat. Cut down on fat and sweets and add more fruits and vegetables. After you get that under control, add exercise. If you hate working out, try just 15 minutes a day at first, then 1/2 hour. Keep in mind that while you exercise you are burning calories and not eating. Also, it will be easier if you think of an activity that you enjoy.
2. Find a friend
It’s always good to have support when you’re trying to lose weight. Find a friend who wants to lose weight and compare notes, weigh yourself together and maybe even have a contest.
3. Use weights
Lifting weights will build muscle and increase your metabolism so you burn more calories. Also, muscle takes up less space than fat, so you’ll be smaller (but probably heavier).
4. Eat fewer carbohydrates
Do not eat so much bread and pasta and you will see the difference.
5. Set a goal
Set a target date for losing weight and write it down. For example, ‘By December 14, 2004, I will weigh 150 pounds or less.’ Put it somewhere where you will see it daily.
6. Give up the sodas
If you drink a soft drink or 2 a day you are adding empty calories. If you find it difficult to stop completely, reduce the amount at first and drink water instead.
7. Roast or boil
Avoid fried, grilled meat and use a lot of spices. You’ll get used to it and probably enjoy it more.
8. Don’t buy junk food
When you go shopping, don’t go on an empty stomach and you’ll be less likely to buy junk food. Keep your home “junk food free” so you’re not tempted to indulge.
9. Eat breakfast
Consume most of your calories early in the day and always eat breakfast. Don’t eat after 8 p.m. and you’ll not only avoid those added calories, but you’ll sleep better.
10. Treat yourself
When you tell yourself that you can’t have something, you want it more. Treat yourself once a day (ie half a cookie) and you won’t feel like you’re missing out.
11. Use smaller plates
Trick yourself into thinking you’re eating more by using a smaller plate.
12. Drink lots of water
Drink water when you’re hungry and you’ll get that ‘full’ feeling.
13. Don’t eat everything on your plate
Many times we eat just because it is there. Pay attention to when you’ve had enough.
14. Eat five or six meals a day
Eating more often will keep you from being too hungry.
15. Plan your training sessions
Write your training sessions in your diary or planner.
16. Stay away from fad diets
Fad diets don’t work. If you lose weight fast, chances are you’ll gain it back (and more) just as fast. It takes time to put it on and time to take it off.
17. Do multiple workouts a day
While watching TV, do sit-ups and leg lifts.
18. Measure your food
If you decide to have junk food as a snack, be sure to measure and monitor what you eat.
19. Preserve pre-cut vegetables
…and drive away those cravings.
20. Create good habits
It is a known fact that when we do something twenty-one times it becomes a habit. Create good eating habits.