Weight management is one of the best things you can do for yourself. You lower your risk of suffering from certain health conditions, you feel better, you look better, and you have more energy. Managing your weight can be difficult, however. A busy life means little time for exercise or healthy eating. But by adopting a few healthy habits you can effectively control your weight or lose weight, without stress.
Choosing the Right Foods
You won’t be able to maintain a healthy weight or get to your target weight if you are consistently eating unhealthy food choices. For example, you should aim for a balance between lean protein like fish or chicken breast, wholegrains, and vegetables. Include fruit in your diet and drink plenty of water. Avoid sugary drinks which pile on the calories without you really noticing, and steer clear of processed foods that are high in saturated fat and salt.
Fiber is essential for a healthy diet and to manage your weight. Fiber helps you feel full so you eat less and are less likely to snack on high-fat or sugary foods. Most people don’t get enough fiber – women should have 25 to 30g a day. Find fiber in wholewheat products like pasta, brown rice, wholemeal bread, and cereals. Vegetables, oats, beans and legumes also contain fiber.
Include five servings of fruit and vegetables every day – this healthy habit provides vitamins and minerals as well as fills you up without adding too many calories. Avoid canned fruit and fruit juices and keep the skins on the fruit to provide extra nutrients.
Exercising Regularly
Get into the habit of exercising or being physically active on a daily basis. You can work exercise into your daily routine – walk to the store instead of driving, play with the kids in the park etc., and you can also make time to go to the gym or play a sport. Exercise helps you use calories but it also improves your heart health and can even lift depression. Get a medical check-up if you have pain or injuries that prevent you from leading an active life.
Drinking Lots of Water
Make it a habit to have a bottle of water on your desk at work, or regularly sip water when you are at home. Drink six to eight glasses of water every day for hydration and to prevent overeating.