Nobody likes the word ‘diet’. It brings to mind scrimping and going without all the things you love. It’s especially difficult to reinforce your will power after the holiday season.
But it’s not all bad. There really are plenty of ways to lose pounds quickly without having to go without and it’s much easier than you think – once you know how. You can start the New Year with some great weight loss results with these easy tips.
Here are the top nine tips to lose pounds in 2009.
1. Water So many people avoid drinking simple water, yet it’s one of nature’s best ways to clean out your body at the same time as helping to shed those pounds. Drinking enough water doesn’t have to be difficult. Simply drink a glass of water before each meal or snack and you’ll suddenly find you’re rehydrated, feeling less bloated and you’re suddenly less tempted to reach for the sugary snacks.
2. Fiber Fiber is a brilliant weight-loss secret that can help you lose weight at the same time as making you feel full. You can actually reduce your hunger pangs by eating enough fiber in your diet. Simple foods like fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and beans will increase your fiber intake, make you feel full faster and help you lose weight quicker.
3. Snacks Staying slim does not require starving yourself. You should definitely snack throughout the day in between meals. Your metabolism will increase by snacking, helping your weight loss. Be careful however of what snacks you choose to eat; remember they should be healthy snacks. It’s definitely okay to eat nuts, fruit, and even a snack size tub of yogurt or baked rice crispies. Moreover, just be smart about your snack choices.
4. Walk Use every chance you get to walk. Instead of taking the elevator, use the stairs. Park in the back of the store parking lot and walk. Go for a walk in your neighborhood or at a local park with your dog, or with a friend. Or if you want to stay home, turn on your stereo and walk around your house.
5. Grill it don’t Fry it Stop frying your foods and try grilling them. Grilling is easy and takes less time than frying. It’s also healthier and has fewer calories.
6. Side Dishes We have been groomed to believe that meals are not complete without fries on the side. Instead of eating fries, eat a simple and healthy salad or steamed veggies.
7. Processed Foods Pre-packaged chicken and ham slices may be convenient and easy, but they are hardly healthy. That is because these options have high levels of salt. Salt makes your body retain fluid and makes it harder for you to stay slim. Avoid pre-packaged processed foods, and instead by fresh options whenever you can.
8. Keep It Lean Red meat and poultry are not off limits; just remember to buy the leanest cuts available. Trim off excess fat and cut off the skin from chicken. Grill your meat to keep the goodness in and minimize the amounts of fat.
9. Meal Replacement Meal replacement diets are quick and easy, and can keep you slim. All you have to do is eat a pre-prepared meal in place of you breakfast, lunch or dinner. These meals are available through a variety of companies and take the guess work out of diet planning.
Follow these simple tricks and you’ll be surprised with the results.
