How Can I Lose Weight?

Beauty, Home & Family
on January 25, 2012

If you want to lose weight, know that you are not alone. More Americans are overweight now than at any time in history, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. If you’re asking yourself, “How can I lose weight?” try these simple diet, motivation and exercise tips.

The mindset.

  • Heavy stress, life changes and other issues can derail your weight loss plan before you get started. Get in the right frame of mind and make a conscious decision to lose weight.
  • Whether it’s a party, wedding, high school reunion or other important event, an effective incentive will provide the determination you need to lose weight.
  • Find a picture of what you’d like to look like, and eat for that body, not the one you wish to change.
  • Do not throw in the towel when the inevitable slip-up happens. A weak moment or two will not derail your weight loss goals. In fact, extreme deprivation might work against your efforts.

The exercise.

  • You don’t need to run a marathon or go to the gym every day to get exercise. Set reasonable goals snd start small. Even walking up and down stairs or doing housework can be exercise.
  • Aim for 30 minutes of daily movement. Walking, lifting weights, doing Pilates or dancing around the house are great ways to incorporate exercise into your life.
  • Change things up if you start to get bored. You’re more likely to stick with a variety.

The diet.

  • The best diet plan is not really a diet but a healthy lifestyle. Think veggies, fruits, whole grains, plenty of water, good fat (avocado, olive oil) and lean meat, fish and poultry.
  • Eat slowly until your hunger subsides. Drink plenty of water so your body knows the difference between thirst and hunger.
  • Avoid the drive-through window or premade and processed foods. Search out wholesome foods around the perimeter of the grocery store.
  • Know you can have anything you want—you just cannot have it all at one time. Parcel out treats like cake, cookies or French fries as special treats.

This article was originally published as How Can I Lose Weight? on DailyParent.com.