1. Lose the Mindset that Foods Are Off-Limits
Is it just me or does it seem like anytime you deprive yourself of food...all you want is what you can't have!? Take your mindset away from sacrifice, and allow yourself everything in moderation.
2. Keep It Clean
Replace processed foods with clean (whole and natural) items. Not only are natural options more nutritious, you'll find that their flavors are more satisfying.
3. Opt for Complex carbs over simple carbs
Refined and processed carbs weigh you down and muck up your progress. Fiber-rich whole grains and nutritious root vegetables keep hunger at bay, support healthy digestion, and are a crucial part of long-term weight-loss success. Nuts, seeds, legumes, naturally gluten free grains and vegetables are all great options!
4. Make Your Snacks Smarter
Instead of a snack that includes just one food group, go for two—even three. The winning combination of protein, fat, and carbs fuels workouts and keeps you full.
5. Eat Carbs in the Morning
Totally eliminating carbs from your life is not a long-term technique for success, but when you eat carbs earlier in the day, you have more time to burn them off.
6. Top Your Salad Right
Croutons and preservative-laden dressings have got to go. Dress your favorite salad in a lighter, homemade recipe, If you're craving crunch, add some nuts instead. Get creative with your salads!
7. More spice, less sauce
Sugar- and cream-based sauces cover up the natural flavors of the foods you're enjoying and add an extra layer of unnecessary calories. Go light and bright with a squeeze of citrus and experiment with fresh herbs.
8. Seriously, say no to soda
The extra calories and chemicals that come from soda are just not worth it. If you love bubbles, sip sparkling water instead. In the beginning, it will be hard, but if soda is a part of your daily diet, this is 100 percent worth doing!
9. Keep Your Gym Gear by the Front Door
Or in your car, or at your desk at work. If your workout clothes, shoes and head phones are always on-hand or in the same easy-to-find spot, you can't blow off a workout with the excuse that your gym clothes are missing or you can't find your running shoes.
10. Pencil In Your Workouts
Busy people are always putting their appointments in a datebook or on their smartphone planner—and doing the same for your 7:30 p.m. cardio class can help you stick to your diet goals. If you write in the specifics for an exercise session, then you're more likely to view it as another important appointment to keep.