How Can I Lose Weight?

Losing weight sucessfully comes from a variety of lifestyle changes

It seems common knowledge that a healthy diet and exercise lead to weight loss. It can still be an uphill battle for some people to lose unwanted weight and become a healthier version of themselves. In addition to changing what you eat and your level of activity, use tools such as journals and support groups to keep you motivated and help you reach your goals. Make the decision to lose weight and stick with it.

Instructions

1. 

   Start drinking more water. Stay hydrated to fight off feelings of thirst than can be mistaken for hunger.

2. 

   Participate in 30 minutes of cardio exercise three to five times a week. Cardio exercise can include running, walking, cycling, swimming, basketball or tennis. Keep your heart rate elevated to shed excess fat.

3. 

   Use weights to strength train all major muscle groups two to four times a week. According to The Diet Channel, weight training burns 44 percent more fat than just following a diet. Weight training builds muscle; muscle burns fat by increasing your metabolism.

4. 

   Eat breakfast every day within the first hour of waking up. According to Health.com, a Harvard study found that eating breakfast every day can decrease your chance of obesity by 35 to 50 percent.

5. 

   Eat the correct serving size, every time. Read the label on food products to determine the appropriate serving size. Eat slowly and stop eating when you no longer feel hungry. Do not aim to eat until your plate is empty.

6. 

   Increase healthy food intake and limit high-fat foods. Try to eat five servings of fruits and vegetables every day; they contain nutrients, are low in calories and will help keep you full. Allow yourself to indulge in your favorite candy or junk food once a week as a reward.

7. 

   Keep a weight loss journal. Document your goals, everything you eat, all of your exercise and how you feel each day. A journal will help point out any pitfalls and keep you on track.

8. 

   Find social support for your weight loss journey. Talk with your friends and family about your plans and ask for their support. Attend community weight loss support groups to build relationships with others in your same position.

References

• Health Castle: 10 Tips for Easy Weight Loss
• The Diet Channel: Top 10 Tips on What Works and Why
• Health.com: 20 Little Ways to Drop the Pounds and Keep Them Off

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Fitness Tips for Life: 101 Tips to Lose Weight Quickly