When it comes to losing weight, no ‘be all and end all’ method works for everyone. In fact, I have noticed that each person has an individual journey to weight loss – whether they want to shed just two kilos or have a more significant challenge ahead of them. And it makes sense – everyone’s body is different; we all have different bone structures, some people have higher metabolisms than most, and there are those lucky few who don’t seem to put on (too much) weight, even if they eat their equivalent in weight!
As with anyone who has felt the need to shed a stone or two, here’s one piece of advice: you must know what works for you. Often, it’s all about sticking to a lifestyle rather than a ‘diet.’ If you want to keep the weight off, you have to amass healthier habits on the whole. Even if you’re already almost at your ideal weight and have opted for Aqualyx injections to get rid of those fat ‘pockets’ on your arms, chin, or thighs, you still have to take care of your body, especially as you get older. So how do you do that? Here are some tips on how to lose weight successfully – and keep it off for good!
- Set goals that are specific and realistic
The first step you need to take towards successful weight loss is to set realistic and specific goals. For example, instead of setting vague goals such as “I want to lose fat,” set measurable objectives such as “I want to lose 5 kilos in the next three months.” With this, you will get a clear and concise target to aim for. In addition, you can more easily track your progress.
- Develop a calorie deficit
In order to lose weight, you will need to create a calorie deficit – and you can do this if you burn more calories than you consume. For starters, you can reduce your intake of calories by making healthier food choices and controlling your portion sizes. For example, try to eat more whole foods such as vegetables and fruits, lean protein, and healthy fats while also limiting your consumption of (or avoiding altogether) high-calorie and processed foods.
- Incorporate exercise into your regular routine
As we all know, regular exercise is essential to weight loss and management. With exercise, you can burn calories more easily, build muscle, and improve overall health and fitness. You should incorporate at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming into your daily routine.
- Stay properly hydrated
Drinking plenty of water through the day can help you feel fuller, and it can also reduce hunger pangs and prevent you from overeating. Drinking at least eight to ten glasses of water per day is crucial. Also, you should avoid sugary drinks such as soda, fruit juices, and energy drinks.
- Find the support you need
Needless to say, losing weight can be a downright challenging journey, and having a support system can make all the difference. You might want to join a weight loss support group or work with a nutritionist or personal trainer. You can also enlist the support of friends and family to help you stay accountable – and motivated.