Stereotypes, perfection… Today’s society seems to stand on a foundation made of superficial things and a set of tips and tricks on how to get that to-die-for silhouette. Well, let’s face it! Everyone wants to look and feel great! So, we all have tried, at least once, a weight loss regime hoping for a miracle. Still, it is important to set tangible goals and be aware of the fact that extremes are not the best solution. But what to do when nothing works? Always remember that not just short-term restrictions are essential but, when dieting, your entire lifestyle should suffer certain changes. And these five golden rules are crucial! Check them out!
Balance
Okay, so a balanced diet is the key when it comes to successful weight loss. The best thing to do is to eat more often throughout the day and have smaller portions. Why? Because skipping meals and craving for food all day long will have as result a copious dinner. Also, don’t skip breakfast since the calories you consume in the morning are easier burned! Have three main meals and two healthy snacks and try not to have dinner after 7.30 or 8pm. Oh, and don’t forget to drink water!
Portion control
The less is more rule totally works when dieting. And keep in mind that even healthy foods add extra-calories when eaten in excess. So, you should learn to estimate serving sizes and choose smaller plates, bowls, and cups in your kitchen and measure what they hold. One useful trick is to estimate serving sizes in comparison to known objects. “For example, three ounces of cooked meat, fish, or poultry is about the size of a deck of cards,” said says Rose Clifford, RD, clinical dietitian in the department of pharmacy services at the Washington Hospital Center in Washington, DC.
Proper food combining
The way we combine different food groups is extremely important when dieting. Proper food combining not just helps us have an optimal digestion and stay healthy but it is very efficient when wanting to lose weight. Therefore, avoid to combine meat and potatoes/pasta/rice, meat and eggs and milk, potatoes and bread, or fruits and vegetables. So, potatoes and meat should be eaten only with greens, cereals with fresh fruits, and bread with a salad.
Exercise
Okay, so we must admit that diets can be a real burden and that facing cravings, well, a serious challenge. Therefore, what can we do when we simply cannot resist those delicious temptations? Exercise, exercise, exercise!!! You know already that this is a seriously helpful step in every weight loss plan. Walk, dance, jog, get moving! You’ll burn calories and stay fit and healthy!
Keep a food journal
It might seem useless yet experts say that keeping a journal might help you “stop the vicious cycle of overeating and over-gaining”. Therefore, you should start journaling and write down, every night, what you ate throughout the day. A study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics says that measuring food portions, recording what you eat, and reading labels and nutrition facts are practical tools when wanting to drop some extra pounds.
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