It’s about that time of year. Summer is just around the corner, and everyone is frantically working to get their body in tip top summer shape. But healthy eating isn’t just something to work on when summer hits--it’s wise to avoid the yo-yo effect of crash dieting.
Here are 8 (healthy) ways to lose weight, with results that will last longer than the summer sun rays:
Eat Whole Foods
Fuel your body with lots of whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, and seeds. These foods are filled with fiber that will keep you fuller longer and provide your body with the nutrients it needs to achieve your optimal weight.
Only Eat When Hungry
Don’t let cravings deceive you! If you are craving something specific, chances are you may not actually be hungry. If you are aren’t hungry enough to eat an apple, you probably are just feeling the cravings of food addiction.
Have a Plan
Do you always get the munchies around 3pm? Or crave ice cream right after dinner? Jot down potential problem areas and then decide ahead of time how you are going to deal with them. Don’t let yourself get caught with your hand in the cookie jar!
Use Smaller Plates
Your eyes really can be bigger than your stomach. If you are using a larger plate, chances are you might heap on more food than you would otherwise. Using smaller plates can help you eat only what you need. And if you really want more, you can always go back for seconds!
Keep a Food Journal
Tracking what you eat will naturally make you more mindful of what you are putting in your body. The key here? Write everything down -- no exceptions!
Make It a Habit
Focus on one key area to work on if the idea of overhauling your diet seems too overwhelming. But if you choose one thing to make into a habit (such as drinking a green smoothie for breakfast) and really stick with it, you might find that motivation overflows into other areas of your life as well.
Don’t Drink Your Calories
Sure, you can be eating a healthy salad for lunch, but if you are drinking a sugary drink as well, it can still hijack your healthy eating plan. For example, one can of Coke has 140 calories and a Starbucks vanilla latte has 250 calories. One unhealthy drink a day (just during the workweek!) could easily add between 700-1,250 extra calories each week.
Work with a Health Coach
Sticking with your healthy eating plan can be hard, especially when you are on your own. Working with an expert health coach can offer you encouragement, support, and accountability to help meet your health goals. Schedule a (free!) 30 minute call to get started on your summer weight loss plans.
What weight loss tips do you have to get ready for summer? Share with us in the comments below!
