Lose those Extra Pounds and Get Fit

By: Michael G. Worthington Click author's name for more of his/her articles

If you're overweight or obese it's important to take off weight in order for you to be fit. Even just losing 5 or ten pounds can make a difference in your health. Here's some weight loss tips to help you on your goal to getting rid of those extra pounds.

Advertising can sometimes be misleading so take the time to read labels. A product that says it's low in fat may be high in sugar so it's still might not be good for you to eat this food. When trying to lose weight eating a product that is low in fat but high in sugar will still cause you to put on weight.

Portion size is important when trying to lose weight. A serving size may be less then you might think so take the time to read the manufacturers label. If you are still hungry after consuming one serving try eating from a different food group. And try to make sure that you're drinking 8 cups of water each day. Water acts as a natural appetite suppresant and helps you to take off those extra pounds.

Make a list prior to shopping and stick to that list, avoid doing shopping when you're hungry as the tendancy is to buy less nutritious junk food. People tend to purchase food on impulse and you're more apt to pick up "junk" food. Read the manufacturer's label and stay away from foods that's high in fats and sugars.

Keeping a food diary of foods you eat helps. Write down what you have for meals and what you eat for snacks as well. Every piece of food you put into your mouth should be written down in your food journal/diary so that you can have some kind of record of your eating patterns. Write down if you are stressed, or upset when you are eating, as this information will be helpful. Record what time you eat, what kind of foods you are consuming and what you are drinking as many beverages are also high in calories such as sodas and fruit drinks, milk shakes and flavored coffees.

Another way to cut back the amount of food you consume is to always eat at a table. When you're sitting at the TV or Computer you're more likely to overeat by becoming preoccupied and not paying attention to the food you put in your mouth. Try not to eat emotionally. Try to stay away from food when you're emotionally upset. Go out for a walk, ride a bike, play tennis or do something else that is of a physical nature instead of eating.

If you chew your food slowly and drink water at meals and snacks you will consume less. Pay attention to your body. You don't always have to finish everything on your plate, if your body says it's full, then stop eating.

When eating out at a restaurant, plan beforehand whet you're going to eat. That way you'll stay away from impulse ordering. Get a fax of the restaurant's menu before leaving home, that way you can make your selection ahead of time. you'll have more time this way to make a healthy food choice. Consume fresh fruit, low fat, high fiber foods when snacking.

Cutting back on your fat intake:

When you're preparing food use small amounts of the fat group and limit your use of mayonnaise and salad dressings. Substitute herbs and spices instead of dressings.

When getting dairy products look for those that are low fat or non-fat. Trim the fat off of meat before cooking or grilling. Try to avoid frying the meat, instead grill or broil. Keep away from using bacon, sausages or processed meats in meals and snacks. It's also a good idea to stay away from foods that are high in sugar and fats such as pies, croissants, cakes, and sausage rolls.

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