5 Quick Tips for Weight Loss Beginners

Here are 5 quick and easy tips for weight loss beginners. You can start using these today!

Let’s face it, the majority of people have no idea how to lose weight. You’d think for such a universal issue, we would have figured out a simple solution by now. But that is definitely not the case! And to make matters worse, many individuals and companies target those who don’t know any better and mislead them with false claims and inaccurate information.

It’s a huge health problem that is leading many to desperation during their search for answers. And many are falling prey to the marketing gimmicks of the diet industry.

Remember, you do not need to buy anything to start your weight loss!

In fact, if someone is telling you to buy a product in order to start your weight loss journey…run!! Instead Here are my top 5 tips if you’re just starting on your weight loss journey. Weight loss is simple, but losing weight is hard.

1. Read every label.

We know that losing weight comes from a calorie deficit [if this is new to you start here]. So the most important place to start is with your calorie intake.

Most people have no idea how many calories they are actually eating in a day. This can often lead to over consumption and weight gain.Learning to accurately gauge your intake is the best place to start.

Read every label. Pay specific attention to: ingredients, portion size, calories, protein, fats, carbs, vitamins/minerals, and sugar.

Even if you don’t traditionally count calories, it is still important to know what is going into your body, in what quantity, and how much energy (calories) it is going to provide you.

2. Start walking.

I have noticed that newbies can get so caught up with lifting and hitting the gym. Then quickly find themselves so sore that they are more sedentary throughout the day. Inevitably, they burn out or injure themselves with the 2-a-day workouts and 6-day-a-week Crossfit workouts.

Every extra step adds up to calories burned and weight loss.

Parking further from the store, taking a quick lap around the building after lunch, or walking to the mailbox, all add up. Assess your schedule and habits to see where you can slip in a few extra steps throughout your day.

3. Learn to cook.

I cannot stress this enough. Cooking at home saves you money and calories. Not to mention, you have more control over what goes into your food.

Things like quality ingredients and portion sizes very are important. Restaurants usually add extra sugar, sauces, and fats that add tons more calories to a dish.

When I make my own meals I tend to use less fats and calorie dense foods. I find that the flavor is just as delicious!

4. Shop on a full stomach

You’ve definitely heard this one before, but this is actually one of my steadfast rules. I do not go to the grocery store unless I’ve eaten. It is for one reason only, I make better choices. I find that my favorite snacks are easier to keep out of my cart when I am full and in control.

5. Identify your indulgences.

I know this may sound counter intuitive to losing weight, but figuring out what specific treats you love is very important. Forget the concept of a “guilty” pleasure.

Instead, embrace those few delights like a piece of high quality chocolate or a warm buttery croissant. If that is the one food, of all foods, that brings you the most joy, then incorporate it into your life (of course being mindful of portion size).

Allow yourself to indulge in small pleasures. It is much easier to resist temptation and maintain self control 90% of the time if you allow 10% to be the most pleasurable things to you.