Common-Sense Tactics for Losing Weight

If you’ve gained a few pounds during the holiday season, you’re not alone. Drinking eggnog, and over-indulging in other delicious goodies can play havoc with your weight loss plans. Fortunately, some common-sense strategies can help rid you of those extra holiday pounds.

Eating small meals every three hours may spark your metabolism and curb overeating. Strive to include a high-quality protein, such as yogurt or soy cheese along with a complex carbohydrate. Whole-grain crackers with low fat cheese or vegetables coupled with low-fat dip make great choices for snacks.

Write down what you eat: Just like it’s a good idea to write down your New Year’s resolutions, it’s wise to write down what you eat. By writing down what you eat, you’re forced to be aware of what goes into your mouth. This helps with mindless eating, which is a detriment when you are trying to lose weight.

Count and cut calories: In order to achieve weight loss, you need to burn more calories than you consume. Find out how many calories you are consuming in a typical day. Then, set a new calorie goal. Keep in mind that women and men should not consume less than 1,200 and 1,400 calories per day, respectively.

Engage in physical activity that you enjoy. If you despise running (and the cold), then jogging three miles in the New Jersey cold and snow may not be something you stick with. Instead, find an activity that you enjoy. Whether it is walking, swimming or playing racquetball, when you are doing something you like, you’re more likely to continue with it. Exercise is a fabulous weight loss tool because it helps to increase your metabolism, even at rest. It’ll also assist you in burning more calories than you take in.

Don’t sacrifice your favorite foods: Many dieters think they need to totally eliminate their favorite high-calorie foods. However, quite often when you deprive yourself, you end up over indulging later that day or week. Most experts say that it is okay to enjoy your favorite foods once and a while. The key is moderation.

Other common-strategies to help you lose weight include eating slowing, drinking eight glasses of water a day, watching your portion size and keeping healthy foods close at hand.