Someone passed on a very simple, yet profound, tip to me last night. I’ve been stuck on a weight-loss plateau for a couple of months and have noticed some sloppy eating habits returning. Luckily, my exercise habits are deeply ingrained now, so there’s been no slippage there.
The person I was speaking with gave me a brilliant idea. Use a timer to regulate my environment, which will help regulate my eating. Here’s how it works: Get a timer that’s small and easy to carry with you. Throughout the day, simply have the timer count down an hour all day long. When the timer rings, if it’s only been an hour since you last ate a healthy meal or snack, then drink a glass of purified water. Set the timer and get on with your business. When it rings again, if it’s been 2 hours since you last ate, have a small snack or a scheduled meal. Repeat throughout the day, constantly checking in with yourself as to whether it’s time for water or for a snack/meal.
Another tip was to always have snacks and meals available no matter where you are. Always have something quick to reach for that will nip hunger in the bud–protein shakes and bars, fruits and vegetables, or a balanced meal. For me, that means carrying a cooler with me to ensure I have plenty of healthy choices with me when I’m away from home. Once you develop the habit, it becomes second nature to have that cooler packed and on hand before heading out the door.
Does this require you to be organized and disciplined? Well, yes. Does it require you to think before anything passes your lips? Exactly. Does it insure you never let too much time pass before you either have a drink of water or eat a healthy snack/meal? Yes, and that’s the real secret to success.
Remember, move more, eat less (and well), and drink plenty of water. Those are the keys to weight loss success.
Also, meet your new friends: a cooler and a simple count down timer. They’ll keep you organized and prepared and ultimately on track to meet your weight loss goals.
Blessings,
Cindy
Tags: exercise to lose fat, exercise to lose weight, fat loss, healthy diet, healthy drinks, lose the fat, weight loss, Weight Loss Tips