It’s always more fun doing something when you have someone to share it with. Just think about going to the movies or a restaurant or even a theme park. None of these things can be fully enjoyed alone. It’s so much more fun when you have someone to experience all of these things with. Much the same goes for losing weight.
There is just no inspiration in attempting to lose weight on your own. Any weight loss programme should include a friend or loved one cheering you on and even doing it with you. It is very important that you identify this person before starting any weight management or weight loss programme. If your programme includes keeping a food diary, then your cheerleader can help you keep it up to date and sound the warning if you’re going over the limit a bit.
If you really want to get going on your weight loss goals and can’t seem to find anyone willing to help you along the way, then don’t despair. There are many online support groups for weight loss and others and websites that are more than happy to help you realise your goal. In SA there is a wonderful website called online rehab that has set up a close-knit community of people just like you. They share triumphs and failures and generally just keep egging one another on to keep at it when it comes to weight loss.
Once you have the moral support you need, why not give them a try and see what a difference they can make to your weight loss efforts?
5 Simple Weight Loss Tips
Many people put themselves on a weight loss programme with all good intention and stick to it, seeing great results during the first stage. Often, after months of fasting, dieting and hard slog exercise, one just hits what seems an impenetrable brick wall. Sometimes, people are driven to extreme measures. Not necessary any more – read on and follow these simple tricks and hit your desired weight loss target bang on.
High protein and water before meals – An easy and palatable way to do this is to have a protein shake before a meal. Depending on the brand of shake, check instructions, one scoop of whey protein with an average tall glass of water will satisfy your hunger greatly. This should prevent you from loading your plate too much. You’ll be getting the much needed water and protein that will keep the hunger pangs at bay for longer. You will also find an increase in energy levels, which helps burn up the fat. No more tired sleepy feeling after a meal.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) – Yuk! You say. As a drink it has incredible health benefits and is thoroughly recommended for inclusion in your weight loss programme. The suggested dosage is 2 tsp. mixed in a small amount of water three times a day. ACV is an energy booster, increases metabolism, decreases inflammation and hunger pangs, these are just a few of the benefits.
Salba (also known as Chia) – This is a whole grain, rich in fibre originally from Mexico. It’s the new “super food” which comes as a granulated seed; it has no taste so it will not interfere with other foods. Some of the fantastic health benefits are improvement of cardiovascular health, improved joint function, improves digestion and acts as a natural detoxifier. For dieters, it helps reduce hunger pangs, cravings while providing natural energy. Once eating Salba you should notice a big difference in energy levels and reduction in your appetite.
Wake up your metabolism – Once you’re awake in the mornings, get into the routine of doing a 5 minute highly intensive exercise programme. This will give your metabolism a kick start for the day.
Exercises for your kick start could be or similar to: 10 jumping jacks,10 body squats, 5 push ups, 10 starfish ending with an on the spot 1 minute jog.
Keep your metabolism on its toes – Keep your body from going into “sleep mode pattern” rotate your calories. Change your nutrients around don’t let your body get used to the same things at each meal thus keeping your metabolism actively working thinking “what’s next”? The best way to keep track of this is to keep a food diary on a daily basis.
To learn more about the psychology behind effective weight loss, also have a look at edsa.co.za in South Africa.
Lea Malloy is a health blogger who enjoys writing on her website. Lea has always had an interest in medicine, and she hopes to become a doctor one day. She loves reading about medical discoveries, especially when they are for rare conditions that don’t have much research yet. She also likes exploring the science behind different diets and nutrition programs.
