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Weight loss can seem intimidating, but there are a few life-changing diet tricks that can help keep you on track and take some of the struggle (and intimidation) out of losing weight. These tips can help you eliminate unnecessary, extra calories from your diet and stick to diet-friendly portions.
Keep reading for more details!
Stick to water and tea, and stay away from sugary drinks
Drinking your calories is one diet mistake almost everyone suggests avoiding. Although the occasional indulgence is fine, regularly drinking soda, specialty coffees, or any other sugar-loaded beverage is a bad idea.
Susan Besser, M.D., a primary care physician with Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland, told NBC News, "One reason liquid calories sabotage weight loss is all in the name: calories. Persons who use liquids instead of food in a diet often think they are making healthy choices or lower calorie choices. But that isn’t necessarily so."
Drinks that are high in empty calories can make it more difficult for you to reach a calorie deficit (which is necessary for weight loss). At the same time, these calories don't keep you full and might even spark cravings, making it more difficult to eat in moderation.
Skip the sauce (and dressing!)
Keep extra calories in check by limiting the extra sauces and dressings you might usually be adding to your food. These additions can pack in a hefty number of calories--not to mention sodium, sugar, and fat. That doesn't necessarily mean that you can never add extra sauce or dressing to your food, just try to be mindful about what you are adding.
Otherwise, try to make your own sauces and dressings at home. That way, you will know exactly what you are eating.
Limit takeout
When eating out and ordering in, you're probably more inclined to indulge. Likewise, limiting the takeout orders you make is a good plan for those hoping to lose a few pounds. According to Healthline, "Some studies suggest that people who cook more often, rather than get take-out, have an overall healthier diet. These studies also show that restaurant meals typically contain higher amounts of sodium, saturated fat, total fat, and overall calories than home-cooked meals."
However, it is possible to lose weight and still enjoy takeout. There are plenty of healthy takeout orders you can choose from, and many restaurants have nutrition information on their website, which could simplify your choices.
Slow down
Eating more slowly can also benefit weight loss. Dawn Jackson Blatner, RD, author of The Flexitarian Diet, tells Health: "Taking your time while eating increases enjoyment and decreases portions."
When sitting down for a meal, take your time chewing each bite and take breaks to drink water. Slower eating can help you monitor how full you actually are and how much you still need to eat. This can make portion control easier, which can contribute to weight loss.
