You don’t have to give up food to lose weight but you still have to give up fattening foods. On the other hand, fad diets that leave you hungry and deprived aren’t a healthy approach to weight loss either. For long-term results it’s best to lose weight slowly and you can easily do that without having to go on a diet. So, here are a few tips on how to lose weight by making small changes in your eating habits.
Don’t Skip Breakfast
Many people try to skip meals in hopes of shaving off some calories and breakfast becomes their first choice. However, breakfast is the most important meal of the day and it keeps you from overeating throughout the rest of the day. Eating a breakfast that’s high in protein and fiber will keep you full and energized all day long. Fiber is one of the best answers to how to lose weight.
No Food after Dinner
Once you are done with dinner, close and lock your kitchen. Stop giving into your late night temptations or mindless munching while watching television. Instead, have a cup of green tea or chew gum. You can occasionally indulge in some fat free ice cream or frozen yogurt but avoid anything else that’s sugary. Brushing your teeth right after dinner is also a good way to prevent more eating and drinking.
Avoid Liquid Calories
Drinks, such as diet sodas or juice, contain lots of calories and don’t really help with hunger like solid foods. A better choice is water, low fat milk or freshly squeezed juices. A homemade smoothie makes a filling and nutritious snack between meals as well. Avoid alcohol because it’s high in calories and also affects your performance during exercise.
Eat More Fruits And Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are low in calories but high in fiber which keeps you full for longer. A good variety of fruits and vegetables can provide you a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals as well. So, add salads, soups and other vegetarian recipes to your meals.
Take Whole Grain Products
Replace all refined grains, such as cakes, white bread and cookies with whole grain foods, such as whole wheat bread and pastas, bran flakes, brown rice and whole rye crackers. Whole grain foods contain lots of fiber so you will fill up faster and it will prevent you from overeating.
Be Mindful Of What You Buy
When you go grocery shopping, make sure you are only purchasing the healthiest and rawest forms of food. If your kitchen is stocked with healthy items, you won’t be tempted to indulge in high calorie foods. Also, if you are planning to eat out, make sure you choose the healthiest items on the menu. At parties, eat a filling snack before you go and be selective of the items you fill your plate with. Before helping yourself to seconds, wait 15 minutes and drink lots of water.
Cut Down Portions
Simply cutting your regular portions by 10% can help you lose weight. Most restaurants serve rather large portions so it’s better to cut down as much as you can and avoid overeating at all costs.
So, if you are wondering how to lose weight without giving up food, follow the tips provided above and you are good to go.
