We all know eating less and exercising more is the key to loosing weight, however this is easier said than done. Equally dieting shouldn't just be anguish, torment and pain otherwise you will not succeed. Here are 10 top tips to change your attitude towards food and help you loose those pounds.Information is Key
Read magazines and articles in order to find out about the latest facts on healthy eating. When you have the latest information, it will be easier to maintain your determination and to be confident that your weight loss goals can be achieved.
Make sure you are motivated.
At the start of your weight loss program, you have to write down why you want to lose weight. Commitment will be easier for you if you have clear goals. It should not just be about looking good. Your starting point may be to lose weight so as to improve your health. This list will motivate you if you look at it frequently.
Your body is a reflection of the food that you eat.
Keep a food diary of what you eat and drink, having an understanding of your feeding habits will help identify your trouble areas. Knowing what you eat and drink will enable you to make those all important changes. This will keep you in control and help you plan ahead
Set achievable targets that are realistic.
Research has shown that a good way to start is to attempt to lose 10% of your present weight. This can also be broken down to manageable sizes of about 2-3kg per time. It is a good thing if you can maintain your weight. You can get some health benefits if you lose weight gradually over a long period of time. At the beginning of your diet program, break it into steps that can be managed easily. You will have more confidence and assurance and will find it easier to succeed if your goals are reasonable.
Eat small meals frequently.
You will lose weight if you burn more calories than you consume. This may not be easy if you are continuously hungry. Research has revealed that individuals who eat 4 to 5 small meals daily find it easier to manage their weight. Divide the food that you eat daily into smaller sizes and try not to eat after the evening meal.
Add protein to every meal.
Diets with higher protein content can reduce overall food intake. This is because protein is more satisfying than both carbohydrate or fat. Protein makes you feel fuller sooner, so making sure you have a lean portion of chicken or fish will help with this goal. Protein also takes longer to digest and enter the blood stream so alleviates that sugar rush associated with diets high in carbohydrate.
Do distractions drive you to eat more?
Most individuals eat more food when they are distracted. Try to eat your meals at specific times each day. You will discover that you will consume fewer calories and will be more aware of what you eat. Studies have shown that eating while watching TV or when in traffic can make you consume 40% more calories.
You can take pleasure in your favorite dishes.
It will not be in your best interests to ban your favorite foods. It is better to have a menu that includes smaller portions of your favorite foods in combination with other healthier alternatives. Just find a way to enjoy what you love without overdoing it.
Find time for some exercise.
Increasing your physical exercise will increase your metabolic rate. You will feel full of energy sleep much better and have a better outlook on life. Joining a keep fit programme will build muscle mass and sculpt your body. Exercising within a group of people has been shown to keep you motivated.
Finally....have confidence in yourself
Do not expect to see changes overnight. It takes time for habits to change. You may even deviate from the diet plan occasionally. Do not be discouraged when this happens. Remind yourself that your ultimate target is to become fitter and have better health. It will be easier to overcome challenges along the way if you continue to think positively.
