Basic Methods To Start Losing Excess Weight

Basic weight loss for beginners

With obesity levels running high, there’s no wonder that so many are considering losing weight even if they have not given the idea much thought previously. Being overweight doesn’t just mean that physical appearance is thrown into jeopardy.

It also means that health and lifespan are significantly compromised too. For many, weight loss may seem like an uphill struggle, but it’s endearing to know that even a few small necessary steps can set you well on the way to the not only the figure you require but vastly improved general well-being too. Merely burning off or not consuming 500 fewer calories a day than you usually do can equate to a losing a stone over three months, so it’s true to say that results can become apparent quickly.

The role of exercise

It is important not to set unrealistic goals and targets that you cannot stick to. It’s essential to opt for a plan that you feel you will be able to maintain. You’ll also need to plan alternatives to comfort eating, which people can be particularly prone to when times are hard.

Exercise is worth its weight in gold in terms of providing sensations of happiness and well-being, reducing the risk of cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and strokes in the process. It also provides those suffering from depression and general feelings of hopelessness to feel a sense of renewed control over their lives. Experts generally recommend 2-and-a-half hours of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Small steps are recommended at first for getting into the routine of exercise, before gradually building up the amount of exercise taken up over time.

Small steps all contribute

Diet-wise, even small steps like exchanging mayonnaise for a low-fat alternative can make a difference. Eating before bedtime can mean that any calorie intake resulting from this can be translated into fat rather than being burnt off. It is essential to try to ensure that the full spectrum of vitamin intake is ingested through food, but if there are any gaps, multivitamin tablets will suffice for bridging the gap.

Other simple measures like making short trips on foot where you may usually rely on transportation can also make a sizeable difference to your waistline. Fruit and vegetable intake are crucial, but it is essential to ensure that the right balance is struck. Cutting down on alcohol, particularly beer, will also not only reduce your calorie intake but provide you with improved physical and mental health too. Rather than snacking between meals, consider drinking more water to ward off hunger.

Diet sensibly

Of course, it’s important to be realistic about your aims and not put your health at risk by cutting too fast, too soon. Some people are genetically designed to be of a larger figure than others, and consuming too few calories can extremely detrimental.

If you have any concerns about health and dieting, consult your GP particular before embarking on any significant changes to your diet. Once you’ve found a plan that you can stick to, the weight should start to drop off. Do remember, though, that, no matter how overweight you are, the best approach is slow, steady, sustainable weight loss to ensure you can keep it off for good.