1. Get some sunlight—NOT screen light
The sun can do more than just give your mood a boost. It's crucial to your health—including weight management. On the other end, blue light from a screen can do some serious damage. "Exposure to morning sunlight can improve mental well-being and regulate your circadian rhythms (supports sleep)," McCord says. "These 2 critical aspects of health are important for metabolism and weight management. I open the curtains and drink my coffee in the sunlight every morning or I spend a few minutes outside in the morning when it’s not too cold." Plus, she says, she makes an effort to stay off of her phone for at least thirty minutes. Beware that blue light!
2. Drink water
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Sipping on that Stanley doesn't only fend off thirst and keep you energized. It can do wonders for your waistline, too. According to McCord, staying hydrated "replenishes your body after a night of sleep, can help reduce overall appetite & jumpstarts your metabolism!" That's why the first thing she does every morning is "slam a glass of water." We can definitely get behind that!
3. Eat a protein-rich breakfast
If you know anything about nutrition, we probably don't even have to tell you just how important it is to eat enough protein. This is especially true for those aiming to shed a few pounds—and a protein-rich breakfast is one of the best ways to go. "Protein helps you feel full & satisfied, preventing overeating later in the day & can boost your metabolism," McCord says. "My breakfast is a minimum of 30grams of protein." Take notes!
4. Add fiber in your breakfast, too
It certainly seems like everything is about protein these days. But we can't forget about fiber and its invaluable role in weight loss. "Fiber is another crucial nutrient that can help support weight loss," McCord explains. "It aids in digestion, promotes satiety & helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. I add raspberries, nuts/seed or whole grains to my breakfast daily!" Yum!
5. Plan the rest of your meals for the day
While it's tempting to wing all of your meals as you move through the day, meal planning is everything when it comes to staying on track with your weight loss goals. This is a great morning habit to establish. "Knowing what you’ll eat throughout the day ensures you’ll make healthier choices, pack what you need, prevent mindless snacking & helps to avoid impulsive eating," McCord tells her followers. "I always know what I’ll be eating at 6pm by 7am each day!"
Ultimately, McCord concludes, "My morning routine has been game changer for my metabolism, overall weight loss and now for maintaining my weight for over 5 years!" If you want to be in the same boat, following her advice is a great idea.