Weight loss is something that 70% of Americans should be considering. Statistics say that two thirds of Americans are experiencing weight problems, many of which are complicated by health conditions due to being overweight. Many of us could benefit by a good exercise program and that would be enough to get our metabolism jump started and us on our way back to health. There are some very simple things that we can do in our everyday lives that would help our health and our weight loss efforts.
Here are seven things that you can do that do not take much effort and they will go a long way towards helping you lose weight.
- Stop eating so fast
It takes your stomach a while to realize it is full. If you eat quickly, you are still eating past the time that you are full, but your stomach just hasn’t realized it is full yet. Try putting your fork down between bites. Sip water regularly while you are eating. - Stop starving yourself
If you cut too many calories, your body is going to think it is being starved and instead of giving up calories, it is going to try to hold onto them for dear life. If you cut too many calories out of your diet, your body will start losing muscle mass. Muscle mass is what keeps your metabolism high and burns calories while you are at rest, so you don’t want to sacrifice muscle mass so that you can lose weight. - Stop eating processed carbohydrates
Processed breads, cereals and even potatoes can wreak havoc with your blood sugar levels. Eating these foods can cause your blood sugar levels to increase very quickly. Stick to eating versions that are high in fiber and low in carbohydrates. - Drink more water
Not only does water keep you hydrated, it performs many functions that are essential to weight loss, such as, flushing waste products from your body and delivering nutrients to your muscles. Water also keeps your metabolism performing at optimal levels. You should make an effort to drink 64 ounces of water daily. - Learn to cook
Eating foods that are prepared in your own kitchen are going to be cooked with healthier preparation methods than meals bought from restaurants. Bottom line is you have a lot more control over what you eat if it comes from your kitchen as opposed to coming from a drive thru or carry out.
None of these tips are earth shattering, but they will go a long way in helping you lose weight. There are many small things you can do to make losing weight easier. If you view losing weight as making a lifestyle change instead of being on a diet, you will have a much better chance of losing weight can keeping it off. Losing weight can be the beginning of healthier more energetic future.