Cinch! Weight Loss Secrets

10 of the Best Weight Loss Secrets
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Joe_Rogers,_Jr.]Joe Rogers, Jr.

1. Thinking: If you are going to have any kind of success with
losing weight, it is important keep a good attitude. Don't think
about it as "diet". Think of it in terms of a lifestyle change.
Everytime I go on a diet, I keep thinking, "Well when I'm done, then
I'll be able to have a few donuts!". What needs to change is your
thinking. You need to change your action. You won't have to start
running marathons or swear off chocolate. Be kind to yourself. This
way, when, not if, you cheat a little, you can get right back at it
the next day.

2. Physical Activity: When I was 40 pounds overweight, there was no
way I was getting on a treadmill. I had to start off slowly. Brisk
walks. Swimming. Low impact cardio. Things like that. My knees were
not going to deal with a 5 mile run. So keep it cool at first. Go
easy. Just do something to get your heart pumping. You'll be amazed
at how good it feels and soon you'll be craving the workout instead
of that bag of chips. Always check with your doctor before you start
any kind of exercise program.

3. Plan Ahead: When are you planning on doing this? We only get 24
hours a day. I can say that actually getting to the gym is more than
half the battle. Think ahead. Plan your day around your workout. Not
the other way around. Will you get up in the morning? Will you be
working with a trainer? Will you go during lunch or after work? This
change in attitude is going to take some effort and planning in
advance.

I like going to the gym even tho I love the fresh air. I can
workout while I get some reading done. I never have enough time to
read everything. Riding my bike on the city streets while reading is
just not going to keep me healthy. Do you really need to see that
show or that game that's on tonight? The gym has a million TVs. No
fair missing the playoffs now.

The same planning goes into meals. Shopping lists and menus are
going to require more attention too. DO NOT go to the supermarket
with a vague idea of what you are going to do to meet that weight
loss goal. Cook meals in advance and wrap them up for quick healthy
meals for when you're in a hurry.

4. What Not to Eat: Cut out all processed and packaged foods.
Basically, stay with fresh produce. Does it go without saying?
Probably not. Avoid sugar and sugar related products. Go for an apple
with Peanut Butter for a sugar fix. If you're not sure what sweets
are good for you, then just do away with the white stuff, white
sugar, white bread, white rice, potatoes etc.

5. Dairy products are insanely high in fat. I've heard you can try
the reduced fat variety. I personally don't care for it. But then I'm
not a real big fan of dairy. Some others say find the Low Fat tastes
better than the no fat variety and is more satisfying so you aren't
craving for more later.

Alcohol is also best avoided as this is normally quite high in
calories and can lead to dehydration.

6. Portions: Open up your hand. Fit your portion in your palm. More
than that is too much. The other rule of thumb is about 200-300
calories per meal. Men? We get a little more (as long as you are
hitting the gym regularly).

7. Frequency: 3 meals a day is not going to cut it. However, because
we are eating smaller portions, we get to eat small meals 5 times a
day. Space them out over every 3 hours.

Do not skip a meal. Eat a little a lot. No eating 3 hours before
bedtime. That's just one bad habit that must go. Frequency is such
so that you stop feeling hungry. Your weight loss will be reached.

8. Dehydration: Drink water. THIS ONE IS IMPORTANT. Drink water. At
least 8 glasses. If you are thirsty then you are too late. This
means that you are dehydrated. Drinking water will help to keep your
energy levels up. You will also be eliminating toxins which can make
you feel tired and worn out.

9. Brain Wash your Metabolic Rate: Okay. So we're eating 5 small
meals of around 200-300 calories for 3 days. Now, increase your
caloric intake slightly for each meal around the fourth day. If your
body goes into starvation mode, then it will begin lowering your
metabolism to adjust to the reduced intake.

10. The Buddy System: It worked at Summer Camp. It will work here.
Besides, misery loves company, right? But seriously, your weight
loss regime and exercise program will be more fun and you can help
each other stay on target.

11. Thinking: Yeah I know. I already said this one at the top. Think
of this as a bonus step. I put this back in here because it so
important. It bears repeating.

Your attitude is the cornerstone of your successful weight loss
program. Inch by inch it's a cinch. One day at a time. Go for the
little victories. You are not the first to go through this. You can
do it too.

By using these tips you will be able to achieve long term and
controlled weight loss without feeling hungry or deprived.

Joe Rogers, Jr. has lost 40 pounds and kept if off for over 5 years. Let him show you how by visiting [http://locarbdietfitness.com] more articles like this.

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