Losing Weight Can Be Easy
That infamous time of year is here for those of us who make promises for a better quality of life, no matter how hard the accomplishment. It may be debatable as to which of the two most common resolutions – to quit smoking or lose weight – is the most challenging but for some, it is an ongoing struggle.
Easy weight loss can be achieved as every body has different dietary and lifestyle needs.
Exercise – One would be very surprised as to how little daily exercise is needed to maintain overall body health. Combined with a daily caloric intake of no more than 1800, the results can be noticeable in almost no time. Fancy gadgets that claim remarkable results in a short period may just as well be a waste of money and time. Calories can be burned doing simple chores around the house such as vacuuming or laundry and yard work. Short walks around the block or in a neighborhood park can be supplemented for better results.
Food choices – In recent years, meal plans that almost eliminate meats and starchy foods entirely were once popular for easy weight loss. Though many people embrace the vegetarian lifestyle for numerous reasons, some of these unusual diets can be hard to maintain when it comes keeping the weight off. Certain diets may include membership dues, the cost of food itself and other fees that can add up over time. If a person is looking watch their waistline as well as their wallet, using these basic steps to healthy eating can make a big difference.
- Eliminate red meat or eat only lean cuts sparingly
- Remove skin from all poultry before cooking
- Bake, broil or grill meats so that the drippings will not end up on your plate
- Marinate meat instead using gravy and sauces
- Increase daily fruit and vegetable intake
- Eat green (or colored) vegetable before eating starchy foods
- Reduce dairy products or substitute with soy alternatives
- Eliminate fried foods, sugar-based drinks and desserts
Water – Most health practitioners recommend having between six and eight, 8-ounce glasses on a daily basis to promote digestive regularity as well as curb thirst. Unfortunately, flavored water beverages do not fall into this category as some have as many calories as a can of soda, contain artificial sweeteners such as sucralose (also known as Splenda) and fructose and though they may be “enhanced” with vitamins and other nutrients, they are usually minimal in comparison to a glass of unsweetened fruit juice. Some even contain excessive amounts of sodium or stimulants that can cause health concerns. The good news is that in the past few years, a few brands of unsweetened, naturally flavored bottled water have come on the market for those who like to switch things up a bit.
Counting calories – This may require the assistance of a dietitian or general practitioner as people have taken this to dangerous measures for an easy weight loss. Losing weight too rapidly may result in malnutrition, anemia, dehydration and possibly death. To do this safely, use an online calculator to figure how many calories are burned doing everyday activities verses caloric intake. Be cautious of foods that claim to be fat-free as they may have excess sugar or salt that can hinder an easy weight loss.
Going natural or organic – While many have claimed eating food that is free of pesticides, additives and other chemicals has greatly improved their quality of life, remember that it is still food! Organic butter and chocolate will still be high in calories and the same goes for gluten-free desserts. It is important to read labels as a granola bar can have just as much fat and calories as a small, frosted cupcake.
Weight loss pools – Not a puddle of water that magically makes the pounds disappear but a fairly new trend where a group of people contribute a small amount of money to participate in a contest to see who can lose weight in a specified amount of time. The winner receives whatever has been contributed by all participants. This also entails progress tracking to be used as encouragement though some may be sensitive about sharing their weight. Sometimes good friends can just make a promise to help each other lose weight and be a support system when things get tough.
Losing weight can be fun at times as well as a serious test of will power when temptation arises. Most people get discouraged when they can’t lose it fast enough and others push themselves even harder in their routine to when they notice progress. Knowing a safe method that works is the first step in having a better body for the New Year!