A Great Start for Your Diet

 

 

If you’re planning to start a weight loss diet, it can definitely be a little overwhelming. Starting something new often means you’ll face certain challenges, this is even more true when you’re changing something as big as what you eat and drink several times a day.

 

Fortunately, you don’t have to change everything all at one time in order to make progress towards your weight loss goals. These tips from those who have gone before you should be an inspiration; they’ll also provide some important guidance on how you can lose the weight, and keep it off.

 

Are you ready to lose weight? Here are the tips you need in order to get started on the path to success.

 

 

1. Choose a Healthy Weight Loss Plan

Eating healthy means including foods you enjoy, but it also means limiting processed foods. If you want to get your diet off to a great start, concentrate on whole grains, vegetables, low-fat dairy, fruits, seafood, beans, nuts, and lean meats. These low calorie foods will not only help satisfy your hunger, but they can also help you stay on track with your diet. The foods that offer the most satisfaction are those that are loaded with fiber, such as vegetables, whole grains, fruits, beans, and nuts. Low-fat protein foods like dairy, fish, soy, and meat, can also provide the same satisfying benefits.

Many people make the mistake of trying to do too much at one time. The best success usually comes from allowing yourself to transition slowly. Gradually wean yourself from high fat and heavily processed foods, replacing them with more nutritious food choices.

 

2. Take Baby Steps

Change can be hard. Small, gradual changes can help you establish better eating habits that will be the foundation of a healthier lifestyle. Some weight loss experts recommend that you try and change only one thing each week. This will give you time to adjust to the change and incorporate it into your new way of eating. There’s no reason to rush, your ultimate goal should be healthy weight loss that is earned through acquiring better eating habits. This is the best way to not only lose weight, but to also keep it off for a lifetime.

An excellent way to get off to a great start is to make sure that your refrigerator and cupboards are stocked with healthy foods. This way you’ll be ready to prepare healthy meals at home. You might even want to pick up a healthy cooking magazine or a new cookbook and try some of the delicious diet friendly recipes.

 

3. Have a Realistic Goal

It’s one thing to want to lose weight; however, if your dream is to lose a certain amount of weight be a set date, or perhaps fit into a specific dress size, it’s important to make sure that those goals are realistic. Experts say that even losing 5% to 10% of your current body weight can help you feel better, improve your health, and give you a more positive outlook. Losing even a little weight can improve your health by lowering blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.

The recommended rate for losing weight is no more than 1 to 2 pounds per week. Set a realistic goal and use the slow and steady pace to win your weight loss struggles. Changing your eating habits is going to take time, but you’ll have these new healthier habits for a lifetime.

 

4. Give Yourself Small Rewards

A great way to stay motivated is to set mini goals. When you reach these small milestones, give yourself a little reward. A night at the movies, a new pair of running shoes or some other non-food related treat.

Of course, if you don’t reach your set goal, don’t be too hard on yourself. At some point, everyone has a slip up. Accept that this will happen, brush it off, and get back on track immediately. Some experts suggest you strive for 80% on track and give yourself 20% of the time to relax the rules a bit.

 

5. Find a Weight Loss Buddy

If you want to get off to a great start, make sure you have some sort of support system. A friend or family member who will hold you accountable is helpful, but it’s even better if you can find a weight loss buddy who you can workout with. A partner can help keep you encouraged and working towards your goals, even when the going gets tough.

 

6. Keep a Food Journal

Most people who have had success in losing weight credit keeping a food journal as a big part of helping them to stay on track. Simply writing down what you eat or drink can be a powerful tool that can motivate you to make better choices.

 

7. Add Exercise to Your Weight Loss Plan

Cutting calories and choosing a healthier eating plan are only one part of a successful weight loss program. It’s also important to get regular physical activity. Exercise not only helps to burn extra calories, but it can also help improve your overall health.

 

 

 

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