It is a common assumption that counting calories is the best way to lose weight. But the reality is, for some people, this can be the farthest thing from the truth. While calories are an important part of shedding weight, focusing solely on this aspect can totally compromise your efforts. There are plenty of ways to more naturally improve your habits, which will result in longer lasting weight loss and overall healthier living. Focusing on counting calories can often make you feel like you’re fighting a losing battle, and total take all the joy out of food, cooking, and your overall weight loss journey. If you want to learn better alternatives, check out these 7 things you can do instead of counting calories.
Eat smaller portions
On the regular, our concept of serving sizes are a lot bigger than what is good for us. It is really easy to overeat when you have a lot of food on your plate. A great way to start minimizing portion sizes is to use smaller bowls, plates, and utensils.
Exercise
This one is obvious, but still one of the most important aspects of weight loss. Exercising on a daily basis is the key to healthily shedding weight, even if it’s just walking down the street, or doing some Zumba at home.
Eat slower
Slowing down when you eat can help lose weight by eating less at each meal. This is because when we eat fast, we do not give our body a chance to register when it is full. Eating slower helps improve digestion and nutrient absorption.
Make Better Food Choices
Do you know that you can get away with eating more healthier food than unhealthy? Making a choice of eating a banana vs. junk food is not only a healthier option, but it will give you energy to sustain you for hours. Keep healthier options around the house, your car, and at work for easy access.
Out of sight, out of mind
It’s a lot harder to stop eating unhealthy foods if they are everywhere you turn. Find a day to do a “deep clean” of your pantry and office snack drawer, getting rid of foods that will hinder your weight loss progress. This will make it virtually impossible to give into those late night cravings or midday snacking sessions.
Get more sleep
Proper sleeping habits are one of the best ways you can naturally aid your weight loss. Getting at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night helps your body reset, giving your mental and physical systems a chance to breakdown food, detox from the day, and recharge for the day to come. Good sleep is also great for increasing your metabolism.
Occasionally splurge
Totally hindering yourself from all unhealthy food can make you want them even more. Create a reward system with yourself so you won’t have a weight loss plan that is too rigid to actually work. If you feel like you’ve done a good job for the week or are proud of yourself for the last few workout sessions, have that topping loaded froyo or chocolate chip cookie.