12 DIET & WEIGHT LOSS TIPS
Summer's officially here, even though it feels like it year round in Nola, so let's put in work to be mentally and emotionally fit. Let bikini season motivate you. Healthy living is about having a BALANCE! Lacking in one part of our lives can affect us in other areas. Try these 12 tips to kickstart you to a healthier journey:
1. HAVE VEGETABLES WITH EVERY MEAL
Veggies like broccoli or squash are packed with nutrients and make a perfect side to replace typical carb heavy items like mac & cheese or mashed potatoes. So visit the produce section to find these goodies and include them on your dinner plate.
2. LIMIT PROCESSED FOODS
On the opposite end of the spectrum are processed foods. These are often high in sugar, high fructose corn syrup, and other addictive substances that do more harm to your health than good. Keep consumption of these to a minimum.
3. EAT SLOWLY
Slow and steady wins the race! Studies show that men and women take in fewer calories when they slow their normal eating pace, so pay attention to how quickly you are devouring your bag lunch.
4. DRINK MORE WATER
Take it from Dwight... Staying hydrated is critical to a good diet and healthy lifestyle. Try swapping soda for water and watch those pounds slip away.
5. EAT BREAKFAST
The first meal is often the most important. Set the tone for your day with a healthy breakfast such as a jumbo smoothie or tasty wrap.
6. DO YOGA
Yoga is a fantastic way to build flexibility, muscle and get in shape. Combine this with other healthy activities such as weight training or running for a well balanced weight loss attack.
7. BUILD MUSCLE
Is a commonly held belief that cardio is the only way to fight the fat. This is just not true. Strength training is excellent for burning calories and sculpting your physique.
8. EAT MORE PROTEIN
The importance of protein cannot be overstated. Fill your diet plan with lean, protein heavy meats and vegetables and limit excess carbs and sugar.
9. MEASURE YOURSELF REGULARLY
When trying to lose weight, it is just as important to see how you are 'measuring up'. Track your bodies transformation by how its composition changes in addition to what you see on the scale
10. GO FOR A WALK
A simple way to stay active. Take a quick walk around your neighborhood or office once a day and you will be amazed at the results it can bring.
11. EAT FRUIT
Ditch the dessert and opt for a fresh fruit alternative.
12. STOP DRINKING SODA
We've covered this before, but soda can negatively impact your diet in a variety of ways.
Remember these tips and good luck on your journey! And remember, Treat Ya' Self!