Many people struggle with their weight. It seems like most everyone wants to be skinnier, be more toned, or to lose their love handles.
In order to lose weight, most people need to make some lifestyle changes. Whether it’s starting a workout regimen, swapping out unhealthy foods, or finding the motivation, we all have somewhere we can start.
Here are simple changes you can start making this week to start working towards where you want to be!
Start walking. One of our past articles focused on the physical and mental benefits of walking. Walking is perfect for anyone because you don’t need any equipment! Good Housekeeping states, “If you are trying to manage your weight, walking can be a useful weight management tool.” Walking is easy but can bring great benefits! Find at least 30 minutes each day and go for a walk. Wake up early, walk during a break at work, or go for an evening stroll.
Shop wisely. Many of us struggle with grocery shopping. Whether it’s shopping without a list or shopping when you are hungry, it seems like it’s easy to buy unhealthy things you didn’t plan on getting. Healthline confirms, “Creating a shopping list and sticking to it is a great way to avoid buying unhealthy foods impulsively.” Knowing what you are there for will help you stay focused. If you are hungry, don’t go grocery shopping. Eat a balanced meal or snack before shopping so that you aren’t tempted to get things that aren’t on the list or aren’t good for you.
Avoid your cravings. For most of us, our food cravings come in the form of sugars, carbs, and other unhealthy things. In one of our previous articles about sugar, we discuss how consuming sugar can actually make you eat more because it’s not filling. Healthline discusses how when you cut back on carbs, “Instead of burning carbs for energy, your body now starts burning stored fat for energy.” Watching what you snack and can help you shed a little extra weight.
Pay attention to your beverages. The best thing you can drink is water! Water will help you stay hydrated and help you feel full. You might be tempted to get that morning coffee or afternoon soda but WebMD explains, “Sweetened drinks pile on the calories, but don’t reduce hunger like solid foods do.” These drinks can give you unnecessary calories that you want to avoid.
Weightloss might seem difficult and very far distant but as you make simple changes in your everyday life, it is possible! Get a friend to work on these simple things with you and hold each other accountable. Try these simple tips each day and you will start to feel and see a difference!