With 2013 just a few days away, resolutions for the new year are already coming to mind. Most people will be resolving to lose weight or get in shape, and we’re here to help!
To lose one pound you have to burn, or cut out, 3,500 calories. If you’re aiming to lose one pound a week, that’s 500 calories a day you’ll want to cut from your diet. But it’s easier than you may think!
With these tips you won’t have to deprive yourself at all. Just a few simple swaps and changes to your regular diet is enough to help you cut calories and drop those unwanted pounds!
1. Measure Out Your Portions:
Many people have a skewed concept of what a proper serving is, often loading their plate with enlarged portion sizes. Before each meal, take the time to measure out one serving of the foods that you are eating, and you’ll save calories instantly.
2. Wait For Seconds:
If you often reach for second helpings, wait it out. It takes the brain about 20 to 30 minutes to register that your stomach is full. After pausing between helpings, you’ll most likely not want more food. But if you do choose to go for seconds, you’ll likely serve yourself a smaller portion.
3. Avoid Extra Coffee Calories:
If you frequently get your java fix with a fancy latte creation, you may want to rethink that cup of joe. Most flavored coffee concoctions contain as much calories as a full meal, along with tons of sugar and fat. Slim down your morning brew by ordering it with low-fat or skim milk instead.
4. Curb Your Sweet Tooth:
If you’re anything like me, after a good meal you crave a sweet treat. Stay clear of calorie-laden desserts and curb your sweet tooth by snacking on fruit. If that doesn’t cut it, another healthy option is to have angel food cake or a non-fat sorbet.
5. Pass on the Bread Basket:
Avoid this calorie trap when eating out at restaurants. It may seem harmless to have a roll with butter before dinner, but one usually turns into two, and so on. Before you know it, you’ll have tacked on hundreds of calories before the main entree. Instead, kindly ask your waiter to remove the bread basket from the table to avoid temptation.
6. Get Two Apps:
When eating out, a simple way to cut calories is to order two appetizers instead of one large entree. Enlarged portion sizes at restaurants invite overeating. Opt instead for two smaller dishes from the appetizer menu; a cup of soup, salad, or a small pasta dish.
7. Drink Your H2O:
It’s common knowledge that swapping water for soda or juice drinks can save you hundreds of calories, as well as boost your metabolism. If plain old H2O doesn’t tickle your fancy, add lemon or cucumber to add a touch of flavor. Or if it’s the carbonated bubbles you crave, sip on seltzer.
8. Easy on the Dressing:
Eating a salad is always a great way to get your veggies in, but not when it’s smothered in dressing. To save calories, use a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon to add flavor to your greens. Another option is to keep the dressing on the side, and instead, dip your fork into the dressing before each bite. You’ll save tons of calories and still get to enjoy your creamy salad topping.
9. Rethink Your Condiments:
If you usually slather your sandwich in mayo or other heavy condiments, it’s time for a makeover. Lighter options such as hummus or mustard save you calories, but don’t skimp out on flavor.
10. Slim Down Your Breakfast:
By making a few trades for your usual breakfast meal, you can start off the day on the right foot, and cut tons of calories as well. If you like a bagel with cream cheese in the morning, reach for an english muffin instead– you’ll save 220 calories. Swapping turkey bacon for regular bacon can also cut out about 125 calories. Eggs are always a healthy option. But if you use three eggs for your omelette, simply use one whole egg and two egg whites instead.
