There are over 20 million overweight adults in the UK, resulting in an increase in weight-related conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Never before has the importance of a healthy, balanced diet and moderate regular activity been so vital to the health of the nation.
So if you’re going to diet don’t put it off endlessly like an unpaid bill. Don’t wait around until Monday unless it actually is Monday then start today. Don’t look for the “diet” that suits you, in the end the premise behind losing weight is the same for everyone, it’s not big bones and even if it is in your genes you can do something about it. Remember, every journey starts with a first step, so take yours TODAY.
Here are top 4 top tips that we suggest you keep in mind when taking that first step.
- Use a notebook and a pen
- Question yourself
- Eat correctly
- Treat yourself
Carry a notebook with you making sure to take down every morsel that passes your lips. Do it as you’re eating so you don’t forget to note it. This will enable you to see what you’ve eaten so far today, it may incite a small pang of guilt as you’re gorging on the fifth choccie bar of the day.
Writing down what you eat forces you to be aware of what you’re eating. This record allows an easy way to track our intake and decide what changes we want to make.
If you start to eat something ask yourself why you need this food. Is there are reason beyond hunger? If you’re tired, bored, stressed, lonely or one of the many other emotions you feel during the day – don’t eat. Instead satisfy that feeling by sleeping, taking a run, reading a book or phoning a friend.
One of the golden rules of successful dieting is don’t skip meals. If you skip meals you won't lose weight. You’ll either snack to fill the void left by not eating properly or get so fed up you just give up before you’ve started. Eating is a basic need so fuel that need literally by eating three times a day. Eat properly, a “shake in the morning” and a “shake a lunch” won’t cut it. A meal should include whole grains, fruit and vegetables, protein and even a small amount of fat.
Don’t forget what you love and treat yourself once a day to a small amount. If chocolate is your bag have a piece of chocolate and really savour it. Eat slowly, enjoying every bite and whatever you do, don’t feel guilty. A small portion of your favourite food will keep you satisfied and happy - and losing weight.