Dieting Made Simple

Lifestyle: The ideal "diet" should essentially become a way of life. Instead of thinking of it as a diet, think of it as a new healthy lifestyle change. It shouldn't be so restrictive that it's difficult to stick to or makes it hard to maintain goals. Many people when they hear the word "diet" think of a short-term, quick fix. The best diet is one you can stick to, so make a lifestyle change one you can be in for the long haul. This tip, as well as the others below, are ways dieting can be made simple. Start Slow: Don't try to conquer everything all at once. You will get defeated and start to cheat on your diet, or just give up all together. It's not realistic to just decide to change everything overnight and think your body will adjust right away. Make small realistic goals that are attainable. If you try to look at the picture as a whole, it can become way to overwhelming. Break it down into pieces, like a puzzle. You will start to put everything together and the small goals will come. This all will help you reach the main goal and leave you with a finished puzzle. Slow and steady win the race. Eliminate The Junk Food: Yes, the occasional weekly cheat meal is great for both the mind, and the body. But for the most part, junk food should be eliminated from the diet to reach healthy goals. Junk food doesn't fuel your body with proper nutrition you need in order to function, it will only set you back and make it harder to reach goals you have set. Most people also don't realize the calories you find in all of your favorite drinks. These are like wasted calories... in a sense. Sure, it might be just a coffee, but what about the milk, sugar, creamer and the extra whipped cream? Instead, try to opt for a healthier option of your favorite drink. Black coffee, almond milk, sugar-free sweetener, and a no calorie sweetener can do the trick. Remember, when your cheat meal does come, don't overdo it. There is always next week. Too Little - Too Much: Some people think that under-eating is the answer, but they would be wrong. Just like eating way too much, not eating enough will not help you reach your goals any quicker. When you skip meals your body goes into "starvation mode." It will stall your metabolism and slow it down. Your body will start to store fat because it's unsure of when it will get anything else to burn, and burning calories as slowly as possible to conserve its energy storage. This is why people who cut their calories too much may reach a plateau, stop losing weight and just give up. Portion control is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. You don't want to be over-eating or under-eating. Balance is the key. Enjoy Yourself: Learn to enjoy your new lifestyle. Nothing will last if you don't put effort into it and enjoy the process. If you fall off track, don't let it turn into a bad week, just pick yourself up where you left off and start fresh. Remember, you are in this for the long haul. Don't be so strict with yourself that you forget to enjoy evenings out with loved ones. Studies show that red wine and dark chocolate are good for you, but don't get carried away, use moderation. If you've already started your new lifestyle changes, you are well on your way to success. Remember these tips when you feel like giving up. If you didn't start yet, remember there is no better time than now. Every pro was once an amateur.