You lost 20 pounds only to gain that 20 pounds back a few months later. It happens to the best of us. Losing weight takes a long time and a lot of effort. Gaining weight, however, is quick and easy. Which is why so many of us all fall victim to gaining weight, right after we lose it. Luckily, there are simple things you can do to help maintain your weight without denying yourself simple pleasures — here are 8 of them:
Make Sure You’re Eating Fiber
If you’re going to count something, count your fiber intake — not your calories! A lot of people make the mistake of reducing how much they eat when they’re trying to lose weight and especially when they’re trying to keep weight off. I can understand wanting to maintain, but the last thing you want is to eat less than what you’re accustomed to. Instead, focus on eating foods that are high in fiber. Foods with fiber are very, very filling. They often contain fewer calories, too. High-fiber food will help keep you from snacking and overeating!
Leave Sugar Alone
Besides the fact that sugar can cause you to gain weight, it can also cause illnesses down the road. When possible, do your best to refrain from eating sugar. Make sure you’re reading the ingredients and that you’re aware of what you’re putting into your body. The only way to reduce your added sugar intake is to know what you’re eating! With that said, it’s okay to indulge in sugar every now and then — just don’t go crazy!
Track Your Progress
You don’t need to jump on the scale every day, but make sure you’re aware of where you’re at. You don’t want to wait until you’ve noticeably seen you’ve gained weight to do something about. It’s easier to fix a problem when it’s small. Which is why it’s best to weigh yourself at least once a week. Make sure you do it first thing in the morning before you’ve had any food. It’s also best to take off all your clothes before jumping on the scale, so you can make sure the results are accurate.
Don’t Go Back To Unhealthy Habits
A lot of people make the mistake of going back to their old ways, pretty much right after they lose their desired weight. And that’s because they lost weight by dieting, not by changing their lifestyle. The best way to avoid gaining back the weight you lost is by changing your lifestyle. Introduce healthy food options to your diet and try out a variety of exercises. Also, stay on track! What did you to do lose that weight, to begin with? f you cut out sugar, don’t start indulging in sugar for every meal. If you worked out more, don’t stop going go to the gym just because you’re at your ideal weight. Stick to doing what you were doing!
Watch Your Portions
Do you know what one of the best tips people who want to lose weight receive? To watch their portions. Instead of piling up your plate and going back for seconds and thirds, watch how much you’re eating. This is especially important for those trying to maintain their weight. Sure, you lost several pounds but that doesn’t mean you can eat more than you ever did prior to losing the weight. It’s fine to have a few cheat days here and there but be mindful.
Lift Weights
Cardio is great but cardio doesn’t keep you as fit as lifting weights does. That’s because when you lift weights, your body continues to burn calories throughout the day, even when you’re just sitting on the couch doing nothing. Cardio doesn’t do that! If you can, try to lift weights for at least 20 minutes everytime you workout. It’s as simple as buying 5 or 10lb weights and doing a few deadlifts or bicep curls while watching tv. Weights are easy tools and they keep you nice and toned.
Be Active
Not only should you lift weights when possible, you should also do your best to be active every single day. You don’t have to run a mile or complete a high-tensity workout but you should do something. Anything! Maybe a few at-home exercises or a brisk walk outside. Being active doesn’t mean you’re breaking a sweat, it just means you’re moving your body so your days aren’t spent just sitting in a chair. The best way to lose weight, and keep weight off, is to be active.
Stay Motivated
It’s important to remember why you lost the weight, to begin with. Was it a health issue or did you just want to look better in your clothes? It doesn’t matter why you made the decision to shed a few pounds, what matters is you hold on to that motivation! With that said, make sure you don’t become obsessive over it. Losing weight is great and maintaining your weight is fantastic! Just don’t make it your main priority. What matters most is how you feel on the inside. Make sure you’re still eating and living a healthy lifestyle!