Posted by Chloe Simkiss | Jan- 04-2021

An easy way to help weight loss is getting enough sleep. This is the body’s natural way of getting mental and physical restoration. Without enough sleep your body and mind cannot perform to its best. It can influence your motivation to exercise or generally eat well. Sleep will also affect your stress levels and if you're like us when you're stressed, you find yourself consuming extra food that is not necessary for your healthy diet… who doesn't want to get into bed an extra hour earlier!

Many of us skip breakfast to cut calories or save time but eating a big breakfast can help to prevent you snacking throughout the day or overeating during lunchtime. Who has heard of the saying ‘eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dinner like a pauper’? It really does help when trying to lose weight. Breakfasts will stop your body entering into a state of starvation and will prevent your body storing any of the food you eat later in the day. Change your breakfasts regularly so you don't get bored… we like porridge with fruit, eggs and avo, smoothies... the list goes on! Did you know that eating every 2-3 hours reduces hunger and the need for snacking as well as boosting metabolism. So try to plan you meals throughout the day so you are less likely to reach for naughty treats!

It’s very easy to wolf down your meals while you’re busy doing other things however it generally takes 20 minutes to start feeling full, so slowing down will mean that you start feeling full after less. An easy way to help weight loss is to chew more as it will assist your digestive system by breaking down more food before entering the stomach. Try to focus on the meal in front of you rather than the television or other distractions while eating. Did you know if distracted you are more likely to overeat and not feel full as you don't pay enough attention to what and how much you are eating! Try to move from your work desk and use meal times to switch off and enjoy your food

No one wants to sacrifice their delicious foods and treats, so by adding in some exercise, you can see the benefits of losing weight without having to miss out on what you love. Regular exercise will help to burn off the calories you consume and help you to tone up and improve the shape of your body. If you are partaking in endurance activities or high intensity activities, try to eat within 30 minutes of your activity as your body can burn up to 20% of calories off at heat.Try to make an exercise plan - go for a walk or jog at lunch, try a home workout, head to the gym for a swim or try sports outside with your friends!

A common mistake made by many people when trying to lose weight starts before the food is even in the cupboard. When you are hungry, the brain wants foods that release energy straight away, usually high sugar, unhealthy foods. It is key you eat something filling before doing the food shop, as this will help you to choose healthier options and purchase less food.  

Alcohol is high in calories and may interfere with weight loss. Alcoholic drinks are often referred to as “empty” calories. This means that they provide your body with calories but contain very little nutrients. Try to count your units and have drink free days. When you do drink choose gin and light spirits rather than beer or wine as they have less calories and opt for low sugar mixers! How about you challenge yourself to complete "Dry January" and see how good you feel after!

We all know sticking to a healthy diet and exercise plan can be really difficult. So to keep the pounds off permanently, it's best to lose weight slowly. Many of the experts say it is achievable without going on a diet. Try to make these simple tweaks to your lifestyle to help manage your weight.

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