Incorporate Small Strategies to Lose Weight
By Rachel Carver
Deciding you want to lose 30 pounds is an important first step. But thinking about the big picture without breaking it down into smaller chunks can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to begin.
Research supports the notion that making small, sustainable lifestyle changes can lead to successful weight loss. Small goals can also help you keep the weight off for good. It is essential to adjust your calorie intake, increase your activity, and develop coping mechanisms for challenges you will face along the way.
Here are some small lifestyle strategies to implement as you begin your weight loss journey.
Wake up With a Glass of Water
Start each morning with a tall glass of water. Rehydrating after a night of sleep can help you avoid mistaking thirst for hunger and give you an energy boost. More energy is great for a morning workout.
Keep your favorite water bottle on your night stand next to your keys and phone. Drink water while you wait for your morning coffee to be made.
Eat a High-Protein Breakfast
It's easy to grab a pastry on your way to the office. However, skipping protein at breakfast can make you hungry 1-2 hours after you eat it. Adding more protein to your morning meal will help you stick to your calorie goal and keep you full longer.
Enjoy some Greek yogurt with granola. Boil some eggs in advance so you can grab them as you leave each morning. Mix up a breakfast shake with some protein powder and frozen berries in a travel mug to enjoy during your morning commute.
Choose Whole Grains
When it comes to buying food items such as bread and pasta, go for the whole grains whenever possible. Whole grain foods are packed with nutrition and fiber. Increasing your fiber intake keeps you full longer and supports healthy digestion. This can help you lose weight.
Walk During Lunch
You do not need to run a 5K to lose weight, but most of us need to increase movement. One way to do this is to use half of your lunch hour to walk and the other half to eat. These extra steps will add up. Lunchtime movement can also improve your mood, which can help you manage food cravings later in the day.
Creating consistent healthy habits will help you achieve your long-term weight loss goal. Finding nutritious foods you enjoy and workouts you look forward to will help you reach your desired outcomes. Determine what the final point of your weight loss journey will look like, and get there with the help of small strategies.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Fort Mill, S.C.