5 Tips For Losing Weight the Healthy Way

Are you finding it hard to lose weight? Does your busy life sometimes make it difficult to shed those pounds? It's a hectic world; even though it feels like a challenge, losing weight doesn't have to be hard. With a few simple lifestyle changes and new habits, you can look and feel great in no time! 

1. Count Your Calories

When it comes down to it, weight loss is a numbers game. If you burn more calories than you take in, you will lose weight. The more caloric deficit you have, the more weight you lose. Of course, there's a little more to it, but that's the basics. However, you can't burn more calories than you take it if you don't know how many you've consumed to start with. That's where calorie counting comes in. You can journal it if you want, but there are tons of app out there that make logging those calories super easy. The important thing is to be consistent and log everything that goes into your mouth. Not only does this make it easy to estimate your weekly weight loss, but has the advantage of making you more aware of what kinds of food you are consuming. 

2. Get On a Program

Now that you're keeping track of your calories, it's time to think about a weight loss program. There are many out there to choose from but be sure to pick one that focuses on long-term weight management and consistent lifestyle changes. The Thrive experience is a good example. Having a support group of friends or like-minded individuals to help you on your journey is also essential. They will help keep you motivated and accountable. 

3. Watch What You Eat

It is just as important to watch what you eat as counting calories. While it is possible to eat a hamburger for every meal and lose weight, your overall health will not be ideal. Aim for foods that are high in water content and nutrients. Grapes, oranges, and berries are excellent choices. Try a hard-boiled egg instead of one that's fried. It will keep you full longer and is packed with healthy nutrients. Skip the sugary cereal and reach instead for greek yogurt or a serving of oatmeal. The advantage of eating healthier foods is that most of them are also low in calories, higher in nutrients, and will keep you full longer. 

4. Work It

Your Basal Metabolic Rate is the number of calories your body burns just by existing. If your BMR is 2500 calories, that means you will burn that many calories just by sitting in a chair. Since weight loss is burning more calories than you take in, you could eat 2200 calories per day and lose weight. It'll be slow, but it would happen. To maximize this deficit, you need to get moving. Vigorous daily exercise will boost your metabolism and burn extra calories making you lose weight faster. An added side effect is that you'll feel better, more fit, and look better than ever! Don't worry if you're not losing weight super fast while working out. Muscle weighs more than fat, so even though you might not see it on the scales, you will definitely see it in the mirror and feel it.

5. Make It a Habit

While fad diets might get you results in the short-term, most of them will not help you keep the weight off for very long. That's why you must make your weight loss a lifestyle. Learn to enjoy your new eating habits and foods. Thrive on the exercise. Share your successes with your friends and family. Pretty soon, it will be weird reaching for the chips instead of the grapes. 

When you embark on your weight loss journey, have a plan and remember to reward your successes. Don't forget to connect with your doctor, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions. Stay motivated, and soon you will see a brand new you in the mirror!