Lifestyle

Helpful Tips On Losing Weight–The Natural Way!

Losing weight for most Americans presents one of the greatest challenges. It’s hard to deny ourselves the palatable pleasures and resort to bland dieting, or worse, adding to our daily grind a rigorous exercise regimen.

Yet there is nothing more frustrating than those extra pounds weighing you down and negatively impacting your health. By simply adopting a few healthy lifestyle changes, you can lose weight naturally and keep those unwanted pounds from returning.

MEDITERRANEAN STYLE EATING

A number of studies have shown the health benefits associated with eating the traditional foods consumed by people living near the Mediterranean Sea.

A Mediterranean meal plan includes a selection of whole grains, fish, vegetables, fruits, nuts, beans, salads, and olives which not only enhances your health but also promotes weight loss. This kind of diet is also useful in preventing heart attacks, strokes, and type 2 diabetes while also protecting you against chronic diseases.

INTERMITTENT FASTING

Abstaining from food in regular short-term patterns (known as intermittent fasting) is a lifestyle alternative one can use to lose weight. By restricting food over periods of time, fewer calories are consumed.

While the rate of weight loss may be low, consistent intermittent fasting can reduce unwanted pounds. To apply this method, start by choosing a plan that works for you. You can consume food for 8 hours and fast for the remaining 16, or choose certain days of the week to eat regularly and others to reduce caloric intake.

You can also choose to fast for 24-hour periods or on an alternate day schedule. Whichever you choose, it is ideal to consult your doctor first.

AVOID SNACKING

The chips and crunchy snacks are addictive, as I’m sure  most Americans would agree. But if you want to reduce those calories, try substituting them for some healthier treats like the following:

  • Nuts
  • Raisins
  • Grapes
  • Super fruits
  • Berries
  • Pepper strips
  • Olives
  • Carrots
  • Cucumbers
  • Celery sticks
  • Low-sodium dill pickles

Be intentional about the foods you are consuming. Plan your meals ahead and remember to eat them slowly.

BRUSH YOUR TEETH AFTER EACH MEAL

You’d be surprised how brushing your teeth after a meal slows down your appetite. That’s right; the fresh tingling sensation of toothpaste in your mouth reduces the temptation for mindless eating.  Performing this task is also a reminder that the kitchen is closed and there is no need to consume unnecessary calories.  Frequently brushing your teeth also improves your oral hygiene.

DRINK PLENTY OF WATER

Numerous studies support the theory that drinking water may help you lose weight. The tasteless liquid is 100% calorie-free and can make you feel full as it is a natural appetite suppressant.

A glass of water can satisfy that urge to eat and therefore, reduce food consumption during meals. Research has shown that water helps to remove toxic waste, helps muscles and joints to move cooperatively, and is good for healthy circulation and digestion. Choose water in place of other sugary drinks high in calories.

Infuse water with flavor using lemons, limes, cucumbers, oranges, mint, and ginger for a refreshing experience.

LIMIT ALCOHOL INTAKE

Research has found that drinking wine every day can increase the chances of some cancers and heart issues. Though a recent analysis of studies suggests that a moderate intake of wine (one glass a day for women and two glasses for men) could be beneficial to your health, it’s best to play it safe and limit your alcohol intake, particularly beer and hard liquor.

GET THE PROPER AMOUNT OF SLEEP

Recent studies have shown that adults that sleep fewer than five hours per night were three times more likely to develop obesity, compared to those who slept for 7-8 hours per night.

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), about one-third of US adults are sleeping less than seven hours per night. Short sleep is now being linked to higher body mass index (BMI), greater waist circumference, and weight gain.

EAT DINNER EARLY

It is recommended that you eat dinner between the hours of 5 and 7pm or at least three hours before going to bed. Here are two more helpful tips to keep in mind. Make an effort to have a salad with your dinner each day. Use smaller plates and eat a smaller portion of dessert.

EXERCISE

There are many benefits to exercising and losing weight is one of them. Cardiovascular workouts have proven to be the most effective. Walk whenever possible. Jog, run, swim, jump rope, or go biking on a regular basis. Take the stairs instead of the elevator at every opportunity. Try strengthening exercises 3-5 times a week and set a goal of moderate activity each day.

Losing weight does not have to be an arduous undertaking. You can implement healthy lifestyle changes into your routine at your own pace. Losing weight the natural way may take longer but it is the surest way to relieve your body of unwanted pounds and keep them from ever showing up again!

About the author

Jennifer Burton

As an author, producer, screenwriter, founder of ALEXZUS Media and BurSel Black Wine, Jennifer inspires women to live boundlessly. Engage with her on a variety of issues from lifestyle and wellness to topics impacting women's social and economic empowerment.