No matter which diet and exercise program you choose, there are many things you can do that will help you in your quest to lose weight. Here are some ways to modify your behavior to encourage a healthy lifestyle instead of working against it.
Increase your daily consumption of clear liquids. That means water and broth primarily. Homemade or canned chicken, beef, pork or vegetable broth that are made without starchy vegetables are ideal. Pick the broth that works with your diet plan. Drink a cup of broth before every meal and water throughout the day. These drinks are low in calories, contain nutrients and hydrate the body. Most of all, they impart a full and satisfying feeling that helps with appetite control.
Keep green salad handy in the fridge and eat some before every meal. Also, make sure to have cleaned and sliced fruits and veggies prepared to eat as a planned snack. Don't grab them mindlessly but rather plan to eat them at your weakest time of the day. Most of us have an idea of when we are prone to cravings so use your knowledge to plan the best time to have a healthy snack.
When you are tempted to snack mindlessly, grab lotion instead of that bag of chips. Smooth on some thick lotion so you won't be tempted to use your hands to munch! Think of how soft your hands will become as you approach your goal weight. It sounds odd but it really works! Another snack buster: when a craving strikes, brush and floss your teeth. With a sparkling clean mouth you will be less likely to eat. Some people find that taking a quick shower works well as a distraction from cravings. Play around until you find out what works best for you.
Another way to combat cravings is to have a home project going at all times that you can devote a block of time to, as needed. Maybe it could be reorganizing a closet or cleaning a certain area. It could be as simple as cleaning all the mirrors in your house or sweeping the back porch. Whatever needs doing in your home is just fine. When a desire for more food hits you, work on your project for a few minutes. Your house will be cleaner and your weight will be lighter with this technique.
Regardless of your weight loss plan, keep a food diary and work out your meals ahead of time. Planning what you will eat is very motivating. It gives you much needed structure so that you are never looking around for something to eat at random. Keeping track of the food you eat is just as important so that you can see what works and gather information about what stops your weight loss. Don't forget to do this basic paperwork if you want to be successful in your weight loss goals.
As you can see, these tips will work within any weight loss plan. Give them a try and you will find that these simple but effective tips can help you keep on track, avoid temptation and stay hydrated. You may also end up with silky smooth skin, healthy teeth and tackle some home improvement projects all while you work your way to your ideal weight.