Summer has really arrived! It’s here. And as we celebrate the first day of the new season, many of us are thinking about ways to shed those extra pounds, get toned and summertime ready. As the weather warms up and the days become longer, we spend a lot more time outdoors. So who doesn’t want to take advantage of this? We’ve got some of our super-simple weight loss tips that may help you get started this summer. Are you ready?
Portion Control
What if we said, you don’t have to give up anything you love? Wouldn’t that make your day? Well, it’s true. What’s really important is that you control those food portions. You can have the healthiest salad, but if you’re eating way too much of it, it still causes weight gain. Everything in moderation is the best advice we can give you. More than anything, it’s a lifestyle change, and you’ll continue to see the results.
Don’t Drink Sugar
OK, we don’t mean it literally. What we do mean is avoid sugary drinks. Cut them out of your life for good. In general, if there was one thing you would seriously consider reducing, we’d say, let it be Sugar. But a piece of cake or chocolate in moderation is fine. However, what isn’t OK is those sugar-filled drinks that do nothing for you: they don’t fill you up or give you nutrients. All they provide is the extra calories and Sugar! Avoid them.
Combine Your Exercise with Your Social Life
“Too busy and not enough time” is the excuse far too many uses. If we don’t take care of our bodies, they won’t take care of us! Keeping fit and moving our bodies is so important. Forget about gym memberships or long runs if you absolutely hate them. Instead, pick something you genuinely enjoy and have a friend join you! Thursday night yoga with the bestie followed with a nice cup of herbal tea can soon become a ritual you’ll never want to miss. How about Sunday hikes before brunch with the family? Combine your exercise with your social life, and you’ll notice that it’s far more enjoyable and saves you time!
Zzzz ….. Get ENOUGH Sleep
Your beauty sleep is essential to your health, productivity, and weight loss. “Research from the University of Pennsylvania found even just a few nights of sleep deprivation can lead to almost immediate weight gain. Scientists asked participants to sleep about 10 hours a night for two days, followed by five nights of sleep restriction and four nights of recovery. After 11 days, the sleep-deprived group gained almost 3 pounds, compared with a well-rested control group.”
Keep Your Body Hydrated
A lot of the time, when we think we’re hungry, chances are we’re just dehydrated. Making sure your body is fully hydrated throughout the day is one simple and healthy way of controlling your appetite and food portions. Many people swear by lemon water, especially first thing in the morning. It’s also a great way to fight off colds and keep you feeling nice and fresh.
BONUS: Brushing Your Teeth After Meals
You know when you’ve just eaten, but you continue to pick at food and nibble away even when you’re full? One of the best ways to avoid unnecessary snacking and eating is by brushing your teeth after you’ve eaten. Give it a try.
Here are our simple and easy tips for weight loss. We like these tips because they’re healthy and effective. Nothing is dramatic or challenging here – because we want to inspire long-term healthy choices that impact your health, energy level and fitness as you begin your weight loss journey. Got any secret tips you want to share with us? Don’t hold back, and comment below!
Happy First Day of Summer, Y’all!