10 Ways to Lose 10 Pounds in 10 Weeks

everygirlsguidetohealth.com

Want to get your body ready for spring break?  The warm days are only a few months away!  Here are a few healthy weight loss tips to help you achieve a fit looking physique and have you ready and feeling confident to hit the beach in your swimwear!
 
1. Eat more fruits and vegetables.  Fruits and veggies naturally contain more water and fewer calories.  They are also full of fiber and many vitamins and minerals.  Fruits and veggies should make up half your plate at each meal.  Shoot for at least 5 servings of fruits and veggies a day.
 
2. Switch to whole grains.  You don’t have to cut out carbohydrates completely to lose weight, but choose your carbs wisely!  Cut out those white starches and switch to high fiber, whole wheat bread, pasta and cereal, and brown rice!
 
3. Go for lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, fish and pork.  Even nuts, seeds, beans and legumes are great sources of protein!  Limit red meat consumption such as ground beef and steak to about 3X/month.  Stray away from high fat foods such as fried meats, bacon and hot dogs.
 
4. Switch to low-fat or fat-free dairy products such as cheese, milk and yogurt.  Try Greek yogurt for a healthy, delicious, high-protein snack to keep you full and satisfied.  And don’t forget to add some fresh fruit!
 
5. Drink more water!  Water will keep you hydrated, flush out the toxins in your body, and it’s ZERO CALORIES!  Try to follow the 8X8 rule – shoot for 8 ounces, 8 times a day.
 
6. Eat every 2-4 hours.  Eating at least 3 meals a day can help keep your metabolism going and even including snacks in between can prevent you from overeating at your next meal.  Eat when hungry, stop when satisfied… not full or stuffed!
 
7. Watch your portions!  Sometimes it’s not always what you choose to eat, but how much.  Occasionally, you can still enjoy high fat, high calorie foods in small amounts.  Remember that your plate should be about 9 inches in diameter and should include at least 3 different colors.
 
8. Exercise at least 4 days a week.  Switch up your exercises and alternate cardio workouts with weight resistance training for best results.
 
9. Get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.  Inadequate sleep can alter your eating habits and also slow down your metabolism.

10. Designate a CHEAT DAY!  It shouldn't occur more than once a week (maybe at the end of the week/weekend) but it's important to incorporate this day as a way to reward yourself for doing well.  It will also help subside your cravings and make you feel like you aren't depriving yourself so you are less likely to lose control and go on a binge, or throw in the towel completely.

*Healthy weight loss is 1-2 lbs. a week.  Try not to exceed this amount.  You don't want to make unrealistic, drastic changes that aren't able to be maintained in the long-run.  Small changes will make big differences and are easier to turn into lifestyle habits.

*Only weigh yourself 1X a week - same day, same time, same scale to get the most accurate reading.