We are a couple of months into 2022, and many of you are probably still focusing on your resolution to lose weight. Are you seeing any progress?
The weight loss journey is quite a challenge. You fight your way through different fad diets and workout regimens laser-focused on losing fat. And you become increasingly frustrated when progress either slows down or doesn’t happen at all.
Have you considered trying a different weight-loss method? You may not know this, but not all types of weight loss journies are created equal. Read on to learn about some of the different methods one can take to lose weight.
1. Mindful Eating
Mindful eating refers to paying attention to what, where, why, and how you are eating food. For example, some people eat heavily when they are dealing with emotional issues. Paying attention to a feeling before you eat, and looking for a different way to deal with it than through food, can be helpful in preventing you from overeating.
2. Have a Protein-Rich Diet
Protein is shown to help people feel more full. This is due to hormonal factors, as protein causes a decrease in hunger hormones and an increase in satiety hormones. A protein-rich breakfast (e.g. eggs, quinoa, sardines, etc.) can cause one to feel full for several hours.
3. Track Diet and Exercise
Logging everything you eat is a great way to learn how to stop binge eating. Moreover, when combined with different fitness tracking tools, you’re able to make sure you are burning more calories than you eat, which is a key component to weight loss. The health industry and the physical fitness industry offer several tools (i.e. food logs, fitness tracking watches, etc.) to aid you in this effort.
4. Avoid Too Much Sugar and Carbs
Sugars and carbohydrates quickly convert to glucose. In excess amounts, glucose provokes insulin which promotes fat storage. Western foods are high in sugars and carbohydrates, which is why there is such an issue with obesity in Western countries.
5. Eat Fiber-Rich Foods
While fiber is technically a carbohydrate, it is a plant-based one that is not digested in the small intestine. It intensifies one’s sense of fullness, which is helpful in losing weight. Whole-grain cereals, fruits, vegetables, and nuts are excellent fiber sources.
6. Manage Stress
Prolonged stress triggers the release of cortisol, which after too long intensifies one’s appetite. Exercise, breathing exercises, and yoga are excellent ways to reduce your stress levels.
7. Get Some Sleep
Getting sufficient sleep, meaning no less than five to six hours, is important for boosting and maintaining metabolism. This is the process by which calories are converted to energy. Moreover, insufficient sleep results in the increased production of insulin and cortisol which promotes the storage of fat.
Different Types of Weight Loss Methods
These are some of the many different types of weight loss methods one can take to lose weight. Determining which is best for your overall health and well-being will depend on you as a person. Consider your capabilities and consult with a nutritionist or your physician to determine which option will work best for you.
Visit our Lifestyle & Health section for more tips.
