Weight loss is always one of the top New Year’s Resolutions each year. Unfortunately, only 75% of those who plan to stick with a weight loss program are still on board after the 1st week. And just 64% stick to their resolution by the end of the 1st month. After 6 months, most weight loss resolutions have gone by the wayside. To avoid being a statistic, tune into these helpful tips:
- Crash dieting only offers short-lived success. You may drop 10 pounds in a heartbeat, but as soon as you resume your regular diet those pounds will reappear.
- Breakfast is important. Skipping breakfast may seem like a simple way to cut calories but can result in hunger and unplanned snacking later in the day. Studies show people who eat breakfast every morning are more likely to maintain a healthy weight.
- This Potato Egg Casserole is an easy and tasty meal for breakfast or brunch. It has crispy potatoes, fluffy eggs, and fresh veggies all baked together. With melted cheese on top, every bite is full of flavor. It’s healthy, filling, and great for the whole family to enjoy!
- Don’t lose track of all those snacks and nibbles. Mindless eating during the day can sabotage your efforts to eat balanced meals. Keep track of your intake, either by writing it down or by tracking on an electronic device. Snacking is not always a bad thing. People who eat several small meals and snacks throughout the day are more likely to control their hunger and lose weight.
- These Carrot Cake Protein Balls are soft, chewy, and full of warm spices. Made with real carrots, walnuts, and dates, they’re naturally sweet and packed with protein. They’re easy to make in just 15 minutes and great for a quick snack or dessert.
- Plan meals out for the week, allowing some flexibility. Focus on high fiber, nutrient dense foods.
- Enjoy this Sirloin Tip Beef Stew. A hearty dinner for a cold winter night, the tender beef will taste like it was cooking all day, but it can be ready in about an hour.
- Or this Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Casserole offers a warm and comforting meal the whole family will enjoy. It has a creamy sauce filled with tender chicken and plenty of vegetables for a classic taste. Topped with crunchy, golden-brown breadcrumbs, this dish is an easy and delicious twist on a favorite.
- Include plenty of fiber and plant-based proteins. Aim to have at least a fruit and vegetable at every meal. Stress whole grains and enjoy beans and legumes during the week.
- This Mediterranean Eggplant and Chickpea stew checks all the boxes. The two nutrition powerhouses may help with weight loss and appetite control. Chickpeas are a great vegetarian source of protein, and low-fat, high-fiber eggplant is packed with antioxidants.
- Avoid sipping too many calories. Liquid calories do not necessarily curb hunger. Some fancy coffees or alcoholic drinks can top more than 500 calories a serving. A 20 oz serving of soda contains 17 teaspoons of sugar. YIKES. Drink water instead!
Water is essential for efficient metabolism. Research suggests adults who drink eight or more glasses of water per day burn more calories than those who drink less. TIP: Try drinking a glass of water with every meal and snack. - Don’t ditch dairy products. Enjoy full fat dairy products in moderation and include nonfat and low-fat dairy products, like milk and yogurt for calcium, protein and vitamin D regularly.
- This Creamy Cauliflower Soup made with roasted cauliflower and low-fat milk makes this a soothing recipe for a chilly day. Pair this soup with a tossed salad any time of year for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
- Drive by the drive-through! Nothing sabotages weight management efforts more than a fast-food meal! Plan ahead to avoid the convenience of a quick bite on the run. Or go with the notion of ordering one of the healthier options and stick with it.
- Embrace Movement. Exercise does not necessarily mean a gym membership. Any activity works – whether you are walking the dog or shoveling snow. Find something you enjoy and stick with it.
- 10.Avoid getting on the scale too often which can lead to frustration. It is more important to look for long-term trends with weekly weigh-ins. If exercising regularly, your weight loss may plateau, but you may see the benefit of shrinking measurements. Healthy behavior is the key to long-term success
