If you want to lose weight, the best and surest way by far is to reduce your calorie intake. Yes, exercise definitely helps, but as most people have experienced and some recent studies show, it may actually increase your appetite. Unless you possess an iron will, you could easily find yourself going on a binge after your workout. The result would be disastrous to your weight to say the least. This is not to say you should not exercise -- in fact you should exercise daily because of its proven health benefits.
The point is if you are serious about losing weight, you simply must limit the calories that you eat. Other than going on a serious, structured diet program, you could adopt several simple healthy eating habits that could help you do just that. Here are some of them:
1. Think small portions - If you start off with a big serving, you are placing yourself in a situation where you would have to eat it or else see it go to waste. By going small portions and following the other tips in this article, you could learn to satisfy your hunger with less food than usual. So instead of filling up your plate, try going for 3/4 (or even half) of your usual serving size.
2. Eat more fruits and veggies - Not only are they rich in nutrients and antioxidants which keep you young and healthy, but because they contain a lot of water and fiber, you would feel full faster. Indeed if you feel the need for a second serving, load up on the veggies instead of calorie-rich foods.
3. Chew your food well - Do not rush. Eat slowly and chew your food well, trying to fully appreciate the flavors of your food. This gives your body the chance to feel full.
4. Go easy on the alcohol - Alcohol is calorie dense and can contribute to weight gain. In addition, alcoholic drinks whet your appetite and weaken your resolve not to overeat.
5. Do not skip meals - At first glance skipping meals would seem to make sense because of less food intake. However, it is not such a good idea because the human body tends to hoard calories more efficiently when meals come irregularly. Besides, if you're very hungry you are more likely to overeat. Instead, eat at least three square meals a day, most especially breakfast.
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