Overview
A slow and steady approach to weight loss is easier to maintain and weight lost often stays off over faster weight loss. Aiming for losing 1 to 2 lbs. per week is considered healthy. While this may seem slow, it will make it easier for you to maintain the weight you lost through diet and exercise.
Step 1
Don’t cut out snacks completely; be smarter about how and when you eat them instead. A midday snack can keep cravings at bay and keep you from overeating at dinner. Put your snack in a dish instead of eating it out of its container, and then put the container away, so you won’t be tempted to eat more than a single serving.
Step 2
Reach for berries when you want a snack if you have problems limiting your portion sizes. At only about one calorie per berry, you can eat to your heart’ss content without wrecking your diet. Berries are also high in antioxidants and fiber, which can help you feel fuller for longer.
Step 3
Increase the amount of physical activity you do. If you already have an exercise routine that involves aerobic activities like running, jogging or swimming, increase the time you spend doing those activities a little bit. Even spending 10 percent more time exercising can help you burn more calories and shed a few extra pounds in a relatively short time.
Step 4
Make small changes in your daily routine to burn more calories. For example, take the stairs instead of the elevator, take a short walk during your lunch break or do light calisthenics during commercials when watching TV.
Step 5
Do simple strength-training exercises, such as push-ups, sit-ups, weight lifting or exercises using resistance bands to the point of fatigue, two to three days a week.