3 Important Basic Steps to Losing Weight
By Genevieve Cunningham
With the holidays rapidly approaching, many people are beginning to think about their weight. Can I lose a few pounds before seeing family? How can I prevent eating too much over the holidays? How do I prepare for the inevitable weight loss challenge in January? Luckily, losing weight is possible no matter the time of year. But in order to be successful, there are a few things that everyone should know. Before embarking on a weight loss journey, take a look at these three important basic ideas for long-term success.
You Need to Know What You’re Eating
In order to lose any amount of weight, you simply must know what is going into your mouth. If you’re only guessing at the number of calories and nutritional content of your food, then it’s entirely possible that you’re consuming too much. Start with a diary. Write down everything that you eat in a day. After a few days, you’ll have a good feel for your intake. This allows you to make a plan of action -- cutting calories, changing snacks, etc. This is the first big step to any substantial or long lasting weight loss.
You Have to Get Off of the Couch
The bottom line when it comes to losing weight is that you have to eat less and move more. If you’re not getting in enough exercise, start by just getting off of the couch and turning off Netflix. Any amount of movement that you can add into your life will help burn calories. Get up, clean the house, go for a walk, or play outside. You have to get moving if you want to make a dent in your weight loss goal.
You Need a Better Schedule
The body works so much more efficiently when it’s on a schedule. While some people have a hard time sticking to a schedule (shift workers, etc.), most people can fine tune their daily routine. Get up at the same time, eat breakfast near the same time, exercise at the same time. The same applies to the evenings. Eat dinner at the same time, perform a similar wind down routine, and follow a bedtime. The better your schedule, the more likely you are to lose weight and reach your fitness goals.
Most people want to lose weight, but there’s no denying that it’s a tough process for many. Use these tips to get you started and moving in the right direction. It might take a little experimentation, some dedication, and plenty of patience, but with the right attitude and approach, you’ll be dropping pounds and feeling like your best self in no time.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Alexandria, Va.
