10 Tips for Weight Loss

There are ads all over the place for the quick and easy ways to lose weight. But permanent weight loss is not easy and should not be quick. The faster the weight comes off, the more likely it is to come back on. However, while weight loss is hard, it is possible. Here are ten tips for dropping the pounds and keeping them off forever:

10. Write down everything you eat

We underestimate how much food we really put in our mouths. A handful of nuts here and a bite of chocolate there can really add up by the end of the day. By forcing yourself to write down everything you put in your mouth, you cannot lie to yourself about how much you are really eating. This also allows you to notice any patterns in your eating habits and cut back where you don't really need to be eating. By becoming conscious of what you eat, you can turn down those handfuls of snacks here and there and that will add up over time.

9. Plan your meals

If you plan ahead what you're going to eat, you are much less likely to deviate from your plan. Those temptations you face everyday are less tempting when you have already planned a snack for yourself in half an hour anyway. Planning also allows you to make sure you are getting all your food groups in while allowing for treats here and there.

8. Brush your teeth after meals

If you're like me, once you start eating, you have trouble stopping, even if you're full. To prevent the desire to eat more after meals from sabatoging your weight loss efforts, brush your teeth once you finish eating. The taste of tooth paste should signal your brain and stomach that it's time to stop and the desire should subside. Not only will it help you keep from eating, your dentist will be pleased.

7. Eat consciously