Lose weight - and Stay Healthy!

Want to Lose Weight?

You are not alone. Millions of people make New Year's resolutions every year to lose weight and unsurprisingly, not many stick to their goal. Many adopt a quick fix approach, perhaps to fit into a certain size dress, or for a special occasion. However, in order to lose weight - and keep it off - a lifestyle change is required. Although this may not always be easy, it is by no means impossible. You lose weight if you eat less and do more exercise to reduce your overall calorie intake. 

Eat healthy

Healthy eating does not have to be a pain in the neck.  You would simply need to eat more of the right stuff and improve your eating habits.

Have more:

• Wholegrain starch-based foods such as brown bread, rice and pasta.
• Fibre-rich foods including fruits, vegetables, oats, beans, peas, and seeds.
• Low saturated fat cooking oils, such as rapeseed, sunflower and olive oil.
• Low saturated fat dairy products such as semi-skimmed, skimmed or soya milk, low fat spreads, cheese, and yoghurt.
• Lean meat, poultry and fish.
• Water. Attempt to drink between 6-8 glasses of water daily.

Have less:

• Foods high in saturated fat such as whole milk, fried foods, butter.
• Sugar, e.g. fizzy drinks, sweets, etc.
• Salt. Watch out for foods which may be high in salt, including takeaways, potato crisps, soy sauce, salami, etc.
• Alcohol. 

Watch your eating habits:

• Eat smaller portions of food about 5-6 times daily.
• Eat slowly and you are likely to enjoy meals more and feel full with less.
• Snack on fruits, vegetables, and small portions of dark chocolate, instead of cakes and biscuits.

Click here for information on a diet plan to help you eat healthier. 

Exercise

It is important to include exercise as part of your weight loss regimen to burn off calories. At least 30 minutes of physical activity is recommended over five days a week.  This does not have to be done at once, and may be carried out in two separate 15 minute sessions daily. Physical activity could include walking, jogging, swimming, cycling etc.

Begin Your Plan Now

In order to succeed in losing and maintaining a healthy weight, the following factors are vital:

• Be realistic and set achievable weight loss targets. It is best to lose weight gradually so you do not easily fall back on old bad habits.
• Write down your weight loss plan and review this regularly to monitor progress and make any necessary revisions.
• Seek help from your local GP if you need support.
• Stay motivated. Do not give up if you don’t see any changes at once. Stick to your goals and maintain a healthy lifestyle to achieve long term success. 

Begin now by starting an effective diet plan today. 

Photos: 1. © Infomages  for Stock free images and Dreamstime stock photos. 2. © Martindata for Stock free images and Dreamstime stock photos.