8 Tips to lose weight if you are committed

Losing weight can seem near impossible for many people, as they have usually tried several diets but to no avail. Most overweight people have been given weight loss tips from friends, family and doctors, but until they are ready to commit to losing weight, the advice won't matter. 

Here are some tips to lose weight if you are committed:

• Figure out how many calories you need to lose, to lose weight safely: People tend to underestimate how many calories they really need on a daily basis while dieting. You actually need to consume a certain number of calories, so that your body's metabolism will kick in and aid in weight loss.

• Eat five servings of fruits and vegetables daily: Fruits and vegetables are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, fibre and minerals that will help you feel healthy, feel full and assist with weight loss.

• Watch portion size: This tip is important to remember. Meat portions should be the size of your palm, pasta and cereal half of a cup, and fats should be limited to teaspoon sizes.

• Do not skip meals: Skipping meals will slow down your metabolism, making weight loss more difficult. Eating five to six small meals throughout the day will keep your blood sugar levels balanced and increase your metabolism.

• Eat fresh: Do not rely on packaged foods, canned foods or frozen foods for all of your meals. Fresh foods have more nutrients, taste better and are easier to prepare. Raw veggies such as carrots are a great snack!

• Eat whole grains: Eating whole wheat breads and pastas, brown rice and quinoa will make you feel full for longer periods of time and will add a much-needed fibre boost to your diet. Fibre regulates the digestive system and passes through the system quickly.

• Avoid liquid calories: Do not drink carbonated soft drinks, alcohol or other sugary drinks. These are empty calories. This type of liquid can add kilograms since you won't feel satiated from drinking them and you are just adding calories to your diet.

• Exercise: Exercise is probably the most important tip to lose weight. Exercising for thirty to sixty minutes four to five times a week can aid weight loss greatly. Cardiovascular exercise will burn calories, increase oxygen levels in the blood and boost metabolism. Strength-training will build muscle and make you stronger.

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