All of us have heard different tips on how to lose belly fat. Some "tips" involved dangerous pills, anorexia, bulemia, or surgery. Those may work for people at times, but what's the point in using those weight loss methods when it will kill you anyway? Plastic surgery is for quitters. If you're an ambitious dieter with pride, this blog is for you. I understand there are foods so yummy, you feel like you just have to binge. You see a double chocolate chip cookie and think "one cookie will not destroy my diet. I'll just work out later". Yep, I used to say that every day just before losing energy, thanks to the crash. No energy means no working out. No working out means weight gain. Swapping out oils for cooking spray makes a difference. Swapping out the red meats for a turkey burger or a veggie burger makes a difference. While you're at it, swap out the white bun for a whole wheat bun. And what of the side dishes? A salad. You can even prepare french fries too, but remember, swap out the oil for cooking spray! A baked potato is a good side too, but if you add things like sour cream, butter and tons of cheese on it, you're ruining your diet. Try plain fat free yogurt instead of sour cream because It tastes the same. Here is a good example of a daily menu...
Breakfast: Grape nuts (100% whole grains) with skim milk and sliced fruit added (best idea is a fresh banana. Potassium is an amazing energy booster.) A good side is 2 egg whites for extra boost of energy and don't forget to drink plenty of water! A little bit of caffeinated coffee is fine, but try drinking it plain. And limit 2 8oz cups.
Lunch: Lean turkey sandwich on whole wheat bread - no cheese, no mayo. a serving of fresh fruit and two to three servings of veggies are another must have. If you are going to dip it in peanut butter, use organic peanut butter, and not so much. A glass of milk is a very good addition to your lunch as well. Also, did you remember to take those multivitamins today??
Snack: Salad with low fat or fat free dressing. Aim for at least 2 servings of veggies.
Dinner: Start off your dinner with the salad! Then eat a serving of brown rice, lean meat or beans, another salad, and a glass of skim milk. Remember, if you use oil, use a tiny amount of extra virgin olive oil or cooking spray.
Desert: Fresh diced cut up fruit with sugar free, fat free whipped topping.
Extra Tips...
Tip 1: Did you know that being thirsty can cause you to feel hungry even if you aren't? Drink a glass of water 15-20 minutes before each meal to make you feel satisfied quicker. And eat your food slowly. Strike up a conversation at the dinner table so you get too busy with the conversation to take quick bites. Works every time! If you eat alone, try calling somebody to chat or count slowly to 5. For example, when you are done swallowing your food, count slowly to 5 or maybe even 10. Then take another small bite.
The minimum amount of water intake is 8 glasses of water, but try aiming for 10-12 glasses. It sheds the pounds of fat right off by up to 30%.
Tip 2: To get you more motivated to workout, try a fun type of workout like dancing, martial arts, skating, biking, skateboarding, or gymnastics. That will help you get excited to do the workout, then you can't wait to workout and you never want to stop!
Tip 3: Eat lots of fiber and whole grains. You will feel more fuller and more energized.
Tip 4: Ride your bike instead of driving. Each mile counts.
Tip 5: No fast food! Even if a certain item looks or sounds healthy. Fast food uses tons of preservatives and oils to make their foods taste good.
