Some 90% of British women have been on a diet at some point, each spending more than 17 years struggling to shed the pounds, according to a recent survey.
It's proven drastic diets or fast weight loss fads don’t work long-term. Stick to a healthy eating regime with the expert's guide to losing weight and keeping it off:
1. Feel full
Nutritionist Caron Leckie says, ‘Focus your effort on fruit and veg. It’s not very often you are told to increase something when losing weight but fruits and veggies are key. Think about making a real conscious effort to increase these in your diet, as they will help fill you up, are nutrient-dense and can help displace other naughty foods from your daily routine.’
Transform dinner with a different veg every day of the week
2. Don’t rush
‘It’s a bit like the story of the tortoise and the hare - to lose weight successfully, goals and changes cannot be short-sighted or short-lived.' Make manageable changes to ensure success long-term.
Try these tricks to fast track your diet a little
3. Be prepared
You plan at work and in your social life. Weight loss should be no different: ‘Plan your budget, meals and snacks to make sure you don’t get caught short and stay on track.’
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4. Think positively
Complement your diet with exercise, not only to aid weight loss, but also to increase mood-boosting endorphin levels that will help you think positively about your diet pledge. ‘Walk at lunchtime, cycle to work or swim in the morning. Exercise is great to clear your head and de-stress.’
Boost your mood with a morning jog
5. Stay alert
When you’re trying to maintain weight loss, you must always be conscious of your efforts. ‘The moment we relax a little we can become blissfully ignorant to just how lenient we have actually become,’ Caron warns.
Keep to the routine of monitoring your weight. No matter how traumatic, weigh yourself regularly and keep a diary. Although scary at first, you’ll be able to notice progress, spot lapses and celebrate achievement.
Monitor your weight loss with My Fitness Pal
Research carried out by www.dietchef.co.uk, the calorie counting meal planner.
