HAPPY NEW YEAR! And with new year you get new years resolutions: losing weight.
Guilty of overeating during the holidays? Here are 7 simple ways to beat weight gain.
Drink water
People often mistake thirst for hunger, so next time you feel like noshing, reach for water first. (You may mistake these other things for hunger, too.) Drinking also helps you feel full. Some experts suggest sipping water (or iced tea) just before you sit down to a meal. Continue drinking as you eat to add volume and weight to your meal.
Set realistic goals
One or two pounds a week maximum is doable. Top weight-loss programs advocate stopping after the first 10 pounds and maintaining that loss for about six months before trying to lose any more. (Here’s what it really takes to lose one pound.)
Build in splurges
If you allow yourself to eat whatever you want for 2 meals out of every 21, you won’t inflict enough damage to subvert your weight loss. And you’ll feel less deprived.
Count to 10
Studies suggest that the average craving lasts only about 10 minutes. So before caving in to your urge, set your mental timer for a 10-minute time-out. Use the time to tackle an item on your to-do list; choose one that will give you a sense of accomplishment—and get you out of the kitchen.
Eat more often
People who have kept their weight off for more than a few years tend to eat an average of five times a day. (This is exactly how many calories you should be eating every day.) Light, frequent meals curb your appetite, boost your energy, improve your mood and even speed your metabolism, since the process of digestion itself burns calories.
Make weekly resolutions
Don’t try to overhaul your diet overnight. If you make too many changes at once, chances are you’ll get frustrated and throw in the towel. Instead, make one change, such as eating at least one piece of fruit daily, every week.
Take one-third off
When you eat dinner out, reduce the temptation to clean your plate by setting aside one-third of your meal. Ask the server for a doggie bag, and take it home for lunch the next day. Try serving yourself one-third less at home too. This simple tactic could subtract more than 500 calories a day.