Losing weight can be challenging but not impossible. Medical experts, like Dominique Fradin Read, can attest to this. There are several things you can do once you begin your weight loss journey. Take a look at these five weight loss tips.
1. Monitor Your Portion Sizes
Be sure to monitor how much you eat throughout the day. Many food items have nutrition facts labels that provide information about serving size; you can use this information to determine how many calories and nutrients you consume after each meal. For example, if you eat cereal that consists of 100 calories per half-cup, you can calculate how many calories you took in after eating one or two cups of it. Feel free to use measuring cups and scales to help you. Note that ideal portion sizes often depend on an individual’s height, gender, and metabolism. Tracking how much you eat each day is crucial since taking in too many calories can lead to weight gain.
2. Consume Whole Foods
It is vital that your diet consists of a substantial amount of whole foods. Foods, like whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, are not heavily processed nor do they contain artificial substances. These foods are packed with nutrients, including the vitamins and minerals your body needs to function. Since whole foods are not highly-processed, your body can easily digest them and use them as fuel as opposed to storing them as fat. By eating plenty of these foods, you should able to lose weight, balance your blood sugar levels, and reduce your risk of developing heart disease and cancer.
3. Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking several cups of water a day not only keeps you hydrated, but it aids in digestion. It helps break down the food items you take in, leading to more nutrient absorption. Drinking water also helps your body burn calories since it can boost your metabolism. Water also acts as an appetite suppressant because it is calorie-free while still being able to leave you with a full feeling.
4. Avoid Junk Foods
Many junk foods are highly processed, so they can be difficult to digest, resulting in weight gain, bloating, constipation, and inflammation. These foods also lack nutrients and tend to be very caloric. In addition, junk foods are known to contain chemicals that make them highly addictive. If you want to lose weight, refrain from eating these foods, or consume them in very small amounts.
By shedding excess pounds, you can improve your overall health. Just make sure you are conscious of what you put in your body.
