Calories are simply a measure of energy. Basically, you gain weight because there are more calories entering your body than leaving it. So, in order for you to lose weight, there needs to be more calories leaving your body than enter it.
Of course, cutting calories without considering the types of foods you eat is usually not the best way to lose weight. Thought this method can work for some people, the majority of us will end up hungry and give up. This is why it is recommended to make some other changes that can help you maintain a calorie deficit in the long term, without feeling hungry all the time.
Here are some tips that can help you lose weight without the pressure of a lot of different diets.
- Protein is a key nutrient when it comes to losing weight. It increases your metabolic rate and helps to curb your appetite. Protein requires energy to metabolize. A diet high in protein can increase the number of calories you burn a day by as much as 100 calories.
- Avoid sugary soft drinks and fruit juices. Liquid sugar is one of the most fattening aspects of the American diet. The natural sugar that occurs in fruit is absolutely fine to consume; its when you consume large amounts of added sugar and sugary drinks can be disastrous. The damaging effects of sugar go beyond weight gain since it can have terrible effects on metabolic health and increase the risk of you developing many types of diseases.
- Instead of drinking sugary drinks, you should increase the amount of water your drink. Drinking water is a very simple way to boost your metabolism and increase weight loss.
Water not only increases the number of calories your build, but it helps to reduce hunger, which means you’ll be less likely to overeat. Unsweetened drinks made with water, like coffee and green tea, are also good choices. Try drinking water a half hour before you eat to help you eat fewer calories.
- Our bodies tend to compensate for the decrease in calorie intake by making us burn less. In order to avoid loss of muscle mass and a reduced metabolic rate, you need to exert your muscles by lifting weights.
Of course, if you are trying to lose weight, you also need to remember to help what is underneath the fat look good as well. Bodyweight exercises, combined with cardio, is an optimal way to lose weight for optimal health and general wellbeing.
- Cutting carbs is extremely difficult, but it is an effective way to lose weight. Cutting carbs can reduce your appetite and help you eat fewer calories overall. You don’t have to completely cut out carbs or go for low-carb options, you just need to make sure you are eating quality, fiber-rich carbohydrate sources. Focus on whole foods with simple ingredients.
Reducing calories doesn’t mean that you are going to starve yourself. Making a few simple diets and lifestyle changes, like increasing exercise, drinking enough water, consuming more protein and fewer carbs, can help you lose weight and feel satisfied for a longer period of time.