Trying to lose those last few pounds can be frustrating. You’ve made progress and you’re feeling good about yourself, but that final goal seems just out of reach. If you’re struggling to lose that last bit of weight, here are four tips that will help you get there.
1. Set a realistic goal
The first step is to set a realistic goal. If you’re currently obese, it’s probably not realistic to think that you’ll be able to lose 50 pounds in the next month. However, setting a smaller goal, such as 10 pounds, is something that you can realistically achieve in a shorter period of time frame. Once you’ve set your goal, write it down and put it somewhere visible so that you’ll be reminded of it every day.
2. Cut out processed foods and eat more fresh fruits and vegetables
Processed foods are loaded with empty calories and unhealthy substances that can sabotage your weight loss efforts. If you want to lose weight, cut out processed foods and focus on eating fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean protein instead. Not only will this help you lose weight, but it will also improve your overall health.
3. Get more active
In order to burn fat, you need to be active. If you’re not used to exercising, start slow by walks around the block or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. As you become more comfortable with exercise, you can gradually increase your activity level until you’re able to reach your goal of 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
4. Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary drinks, and that includes alcohol.
Water is essential for weight loss (and good health in general). It helps fill you up so that you eat less, and it also flushes toxins out of your system. Steer clear of sugary drinks like soda and juices, which are nothing but empty calories; instead, drink plenty of water throughout the day. Alcohol is also a significant culprit when it comes to slowing down weight loss. At 7 calories per gram, it packs a calorie load that is the first energy source the body looks to burn before anything else. So those food calories that are consumed alongside the alcohol get stored as fat if they aren’t used.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to losing those last 10 pounds in no time!
