For a lot of people who have ever wanted to improve the way that they look and feel, the first thing that usually happens is an attempt at some crazy diet. Unfortunately, the second thing that usually happens is the extreme attempts become too much to handle, and old habits return far too quickly. This cycle can be so frustrating. It can also be very hard on a person’s metabolism, making it even more difficult for them to lose weight or maintain a healthier lifestyle. 
So, what is an overweight, frustrated, unhealthy person to do? STOP DIETING…and start making dietary changes that will be lasting. I know that this seems impossible to some, but it isn’t I promise. Look at this list, pick something that you can start with and stick to it. When this change becomes habitual, add something else to it, and so on…until you’ve reached your goals!
- Drink 100 oz of water per day.
- Cut out processed sugars
- Make sure you eat 4-8 servings of veggies per day
- Increase your lean protein intake. Women: 100 grams Men: 150 (Note: This doesn’t mean adding in a bunch more calories by ramping up your protein, but replace some of the food choices that aren’t great with lean protein)
- Decrease your sugar intake (This will make all the difference. I promise. Remember that fruit has sugar in it to, so decreasing your fruit intake may be beneficial)
- Eat a diet of whole foods. Get rid of the processed garbage.
- Eat fresh. Enjoy seasonal produce! It’s so good!
- Cut out the excessive snacking. Extra calories make for extra pounds. This means grocery store samples, licking the brownie batter bowl, finishing off your kids meals, etc.
- Start your morning with protein. If you can get 25-30 grams of protein in first thing in the morning, you will get your metabolism going, stay more full throughout the day, regulate your blood sugar, and you will be likely to make better decisions throughout the day.
- Cut out the treats. Maybe you don’t need a bowl of ice cream before bed every night? Just saying.
- Cut down on your refined carbohydrates.
- Cut out full sugar soda.
- Make sure you always have healthy go-to foods on hand. This will keep you from snacking on empty calories that won’t benefit your goals.
- Change the way you eat out. There is a common mindset that people have that every time they eat out is a free for all to unhealthy options. If you think this way, it’s likely that you will be packing on the extra pounds. Instead, keep your healthy choices consistent, and save indulgences for occasional meals! Skip the bread bowls, the chips and salsa, and the appetizers. Almost every restaurant has healthy options if you are willing to look!
These tips are all very simple, but they can make a HUGE difference in the way you look and feel!