We’ve all heard of those fad or crash diets – and we may have even tried one or two of them! But let’s face it: they may work for a time (mostly for the short term), but if you really want to lose weight – and permanently keep it off – it’s better to change how you eat. I personally believe you can eat anything you want – you don’t have to deprive yourself! – as long as you eat whole and unprocessed foods and eat them in moderation. The key to losing weight is not to go on a so-called ‘yoyo diet.’ For many people, a steady and stable weight loss of a kilo a week is highly recommended – and this, more importantly, tends to stay off. So if you want to lose weight in the healthiest way possible, here’s how to do it right.
Stay away from refined carbohydrates
The first step to healthier weight loss – which entails a lifestyle change as well – is to avoid refined carbohydrates. This means significantly cutting back on starch and sugar, or as they are more widely known: carbohydrates. You could do this by sticking with a meal plan low on carbs, or you can reduce your intake of refined carbohydrates and go with a diet of whole grains.
The reason why many people do this is that staying away from refined carbs helps them feel full for a longer time, and they are noticeably less hungry. By avoiding refined carbs, your body will utilise its own fat instead of carbohydrates for the energy you need. In addition, consuming foods rich in fibre can lead to a quicker feeling of satiation – in other words, you will feel full more quickly, which means you will also eat less.
Consume more fat, protein, and veggies
This has been emphasised over and over again, but that’s because it works! Say you’ve taken advantage of a non-invasive procedure such as fat-dissolving injections – it worked out great, and you have surely noticed the changes in your physical appearance. But if you want to have it permanently, you must maintain weight. And one way you can maintain your weight is by consuming more fat, protein, and veggies.
It’s ironic that you have to consume more fat – but it’s all about balance. To achieve a healthy balance of food on your plate, there should be a source of protein, fat, vegetables, and a smaller portion of complex carbs, such as whole grains and legumes. Regarding fat, we’re talking about healthy fats, such as avocado and olive oil, plus a reasonable amount of nuts, avocados, olives, and seeds. Keep in mind that other fat sources, like coconut oil and butter, should be consumed in moderation because they contain higher amounts of saturated fats.
Move!
Exercise is guaranteed to help you lose weight faster, but it isn’t a requirement. What you can do, however, is move. And we mean being active and finding an activity that will help you lose weight, which you love at the same time. Of course, you can also do some weight-lifting and cardio exercises if you feel like it, but you can still do other activities, such as walking or jogging, cycling, swimming, dancing, or running.
Image attributed to Pixabay.com
