The benefits of weight loss go beyond what most individuals think of. It’s more than just feeling and looking better, or giving you the confidence to wear anything you want. Losing weight also plays a significant role in improving your overall health and wellness. It can help reduce risks of arthritis or foot pain, gives you glowing skin, relieves severe depression, boost your memory, and reverse type 2 diabetes.
Regardless if you are trying to lose weight to feel good about yourself or become healthier than before, it’s imperative to opt for safe and natural methods. Highly restrictive diets, medications, or supplements are not always the best and safest options. Find out what are they in the list below.
- Stock up on healthy snacks
If you’re a sucker for prepackaged snacks that you can conveniently buy almost anywhere, it’s time to change that. Research shows that individuals who stock unhealthy food in their house find it harder to lose or maintain weight. Instead of wasting your money on food that’s not actually good for your body and mind, stock up your house with healthful snacks.
Some amazing options to buy are dried seaweed, low-fat yogurts, prechopped veggies, fruits, and nuts without added sugar or salt. Avoid processed food as it contains few nutrients and is typically high in sugar, calories, fat, and sodium. Plus, it can potentially result in addictive eating behavior such as binge eating or overeating.
- Avoid sugar and refined carbohydrates
Drinks like fruit juices and sodas are known for containing excess sugar, which can make your weight loss journey a lot more challenging. You should also avoid other high-calorie drinks like specialty coffees and alcohol. Replace them with an herbal tea or sparkling water with lemon. Also, avoid refined carbohydrates such as pasta, bread, and white rice. This type of food can quickly convert into glucose and digest, which can lead to excess glucose entering your blood.
The excess glucose in your body can turn into fat, which eventually contributes to weight gain. Instead of consuming such sugary and processed food, opt for healthier alternatives. Instead of eating white rice, bread, opt for the whole-grain versions. Find low-carb diets that focus on lean proteins, fiber, and good fats to reduce your weight much faster.
- Manage your stress levels
In most cases, stress can disrupt a person’s appetite by releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. But if you’re under constant stress, those hormones can actually boost your appetite instead of decreasing it. This promotes heavy eating as the hormones that stay in your bloodstream triggers your body’s need for carbohydrates.
Experts recommend performing a stress management plan, which is commonly used by obese and overweight people to lose weight. A few techniques to lower your stress levels include relaxation and breathing exercises, tai chi or yoga, meditation, and outdoor activities such as gardening and walking.
- Consider fat removal treatments
There are now noninvasive treatments that can help improve a person’s body contour and remove fat. One of the most popular body contouring treatments is CoolSculpting, which is ideal for individuals who want to permanently remove unwanted fat that hasn’t been eliminated with exercise or diet alone. This cosmetic treatment can help a person achieve a more aesthetically pleasing and slimmer physique.
Another popular noninvasive fat removal procedure is Vanquish, which uses radiofrequency energy to eliminate body fat and contour targeted areas. After the procedure, your body will naturally release the dead fat cells. Other FDA-cleared fat removal treatments you can check out include Kybella and SculpSure. It’s best to first consult your doctor before trying out any of these invasive fat removal procedures to ensure your health won’t be put at risk.
- Eat slowly
According to studies, eating fast can eventually lead to weight gain or obesity. By eating slowly, you can potentially reduce the number of calories you’re consuming. Your brain needs some time to recognize that your stomach is full so don’t rush it. Eat at a table with some and chew your food thoroughly. While there are still no scientifically proven ways to help someone eat at a slower pace, experts say that eating more slowly can help in reducing calorie intake. Other benefits of eating slowly include lower stress levels, increased enjoyment of food, better nutrient absorption, and improved digestion.
Please note that this article is meant to provide general health information. We still recommend consulting your doctor or a dietitian before starting your weight loss journey, especially if you’re suffering from other health conditions or taking medications. Shed those extra pounds in a safe way and decrease risks of health complications or diseases.
