Want to lose weight this summer? Instead of restrictive diets, why not try implementing small lifestyle changes in your daily routine? We’ve talked about the difference of dieting versus lifestyle changes in a previous blog post. By creating healthy habits that are easy to maintain, you can shed unwanted pounds without feeling like you’re missing out on special events or depriving yourself of your favorite foods. Best of all, you’ll have a better chance of keeping the weight off!
Keep a Food Journal.
If you’re already thinking, I don’t have time for this, hear us out. You can be as detailed as you want with this. While knowing how many calories are actually in that caramel drizzle latte or that specialty cocktail may be eye-opening, so can knowing how many times throughout the day you snacked on chips or cookies.
Stock up on the Good Stuff.
Lean meats, whole grains, fresh fruits, and veggies… make these items readily available in your kitchen. If you enjoy cooking, try out a new healthy recipe, or see how you can substitute healthy ingredients into your favorite recipes. Not into cooking? Search easy healthy recipes online for simple meals you can create in 20 minutes or less.
Limit Your Decisions.
Ever feel exhausted just thinking about all the things you should do before you even start? We get it. By limiting your choices and making decisions in advance, you can stay focused on your goals. Whether it’s making hard-boiled eggs the night before for an easy breakfast or protein snack, or blocking your calendar for a 30-minute walk right after lunch, you’re more likely to stick to a schedule than try to just eat healthy or squeeze in exercise.
Enjoy Your Meals.
The best thing about lifestyle changes is that they allow for splurges and treats. However, there is one restriction you should try and cut out, and that’s mindless eating. Remember our tip about keeping a food journal? You may see there are times you ate without really thinking about it. This could be while you’re watching your favorite shows, lounging with a great book, or at your computer working on a stressful project. By making a conscious effort to not multi-task while eating your meals and snacks, you may find you’re not as hungry as you thought.
Know What You’re Drinking.
If the thought of giving up your favorite beverages has you ready to throw in the towel, worry not! Even small lifestyle changes can be mighty. If you can’t bare the thought of starting your day without your morning coffee try cutting back on the amount of cream or sugar you add.
Try switching out your morning brew with our MAX Happy Coffee and KetōCré® Keto Creamer. Love fruit juice? Try subbing our PerX Tropical Twist for all the refreshing flavor and none of the extra sugar!
Stay Hydrated.
Now that you know what you’re drinking, or at least the drinks you may need to cut back on, it’s a good time to evaluate how much water you’re drinking. According to Healthline, for those looking to lose weight, drinking 4-8 glasses of water per day can help, especially when consumed before meals.
Get Better Sleep.
Did you know that not getting enough sleep can lead to weight gain and a higher body mass index (BMI)? Furthermore, according to the CDC, about 1 in 3 people don’t get enough sleep. If you’re one of them, it can affect your health and well-being. For adults over 18 years old, you should aim for 7 or more hours of quality sleep each night.
Need a little help getting to sleep? When it’s time to slow down, relax, and chill, skip the glass of wine and reach for Unwined Chill Drink. With powerful natural stress reducers and sleep enhancers, it also features potent antioxidants, vital energy-balancing adaptogens, and more. Plus with no excess sugars or expensive price tag, it’s the tasty beverage that helps with better sleep so you can have more productive days.†
Add in Strength Training.
Want to give your metabolism a boost? Add in strength training! Having a higher muscle mass will burn more calories at the same weight than if you had higher fat and less muscle mass. In addition, multiple studies have shown strength training can reduce abdominal fat, aka visceral fat, which can increase the risk of chronic diseases and some cancers. Aim for twice a week and make sure to hit all major muscle groups.
Get That Heart Rate Up.
Power walking, jogging, swimming—whatever you do, try to find something you enjoy and stick with it. By getting enough exercise you’ll feel better both mentally and physically. According to the CDC, aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes per week of vigorous-intensity activity. To keep it interesting, mix it up or find a workout buddy to help you stay accountable.
Treat Yourself!
A new pair of shoes, a banana split, dinner at that new restaurant you’ve been wanting to try! The best thing about lifestyle changes is the ability to enjoy occasional treats. This is also a great motivator to help you make healthier choices on most days since you won’t feel deprived.
†These product statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
