Losing weight isn’t about following a ridiculously strict diet and spending hours at the gym. In fact, small changes to your routine can make a big difference to your weight management plans. A low-calorie, no-carb, and fiber-rich diet might help you shed a few pounds temporarily. But, the minute you switch to your usual diet, you will start noticing the fat on your belly, thighs, neck, and other areas. That being said, your diet and physical exercises are still important to keep yourself in shape. 

Visit the best medical weight clinics in Orange County, CA, to establish a healthy and painless routine for weight loss. In the meantime, check out these 10 best habits to cut those extra pounds easily. 

• Drink Lots of Water

Ideally, you should drink 8-10 glasses of water a day. But, if you are on a weight management plan, you should make a habit of drinking as much water as you can. At times, you end up ordering junk food because of the hunger pangs. These cravings are sometimes caused by dehydration. 

All your body needs is some chilled water or fresh juice, and you will be fine. Liquids also reduce appetite. So, start your day with warm water and keep yourself hydrated throughout the day. If plain water is too boring, drink juices or lime water.

• No Need to Join a Gym

“You can’t lose weight until you join a gym” is a myth. Losing weight has nothing to do with lifting weights and straining your muscles. That doesn’t mean you don’t need physical exercise, but if the workout sessions at the gym seem too exhausting, you should quit. 

There are other ways to burn extra calories and keep yourself fit. How about you go hiking, riding a bike, swimming, skiing, or chasing your dog in the park? These are some creative ways to keep your body in shape without lifting dumbbells or doing cardio. 

• Take a Walk

A good walk every day in the morning or after work is all you need to feel fresh. If you don’t get enough time to take a stroll every day, how about you return from the office on foot? Or, park your car at the end of the parking lot, so you get to walk a few steps? Or do you take stairs instead of the elevator? Charity walks, vacuuming, and taking your dog out are a few ways to add a 10-20 minutes walk to your routine. Even a 10 minute walk a day is enough.

• Prepare Your Lunch

Your body is what you eat. If you eat outside every weekend or every day at work, now is the time to consider switching to home-made food. It is delicious, economical, and, most importantly, healthy. By preparing your lunch, you will know what you are feeding your body. 

Remember that skipping meals can never make you lose weight. If anything, it makes you overeat because of the hunger pangs. If you skip lunch, you will most likely end up eating an unhealthy and calorie-rich dinner. It doesn’t make sense. Home-made lunch will not only keep you full, but it’s a great way to keep your weight in check. 

• Use Small Platters

Use small cups, bowls, and spoons for each meal. Experts believe that the size of your platter is psychologically related to your cravings. If you see your servings in small bowls, you will most probably feel satisfied. This is called the Delboueuf illusion. Even if it is a small serving, it seems like you are eating a lot on a smaller plate.

Try it once, and you will notice the difference!

• Never Skip Breakfast

Your body needs protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients to stay energetic throughout the day. Never skip breakfast. Eat a fiber-rich diet. The healthier your breakfast, the better food choices you will make for the day. An omelet filled with vegetables, scrambled eggs, and Greek Yogurt is a few healthy breakfast choices. Avoid cold cereals, muffins, and bagels.

• Sleep Tight

Have you noticed how your skin glows after waking up? You feel relieved and elevated in the morning, given that you get a good night’s sleep. You must be wondering what sleep has to do with your weight? Well, a proper sleep schedule is key to your weight loss. Sleep balances ghrelin and leptin (your appetite hormones). If these are not balanced properly, they might cause increased appetite. So, try to aim for 8-9 hours of sleep every day. 

• Avoid Family Style Eating

When you see those dishes full of sweets and spicy foods, you will leave the dining table feeling fuller and more satisfied than usual. While that’s a good thing, doing it every day will not help your weight loss plan. People tend to eat more when they are dining with their families. Besides, it is harder to count your calories and keep track of other nutrients. Keep 1-2 dishes on the table. Every time you get up to get some more, check whether you are actually hungry. 

• Add More Vegetables

Weight loss can’t be achieved by skipping meals or eating lesser than usual. The more you try to stay away from the delicious, calorie-rich snacks, the more your body will crave those. So, instead of avoiding them altogether, focus on adding more vegetables to your diet. 

Vegetables don’t only keep you healthy, but they are rich in fibers and vital nutrients that keep you energized throughout the day. Start small. Add one cup of veggies to your daily meals for 2-3 weeks and increase your intake gradually. 

• Discuss Supplements and Therapies with a Dietician

If the above tips don’t work, talk to a specialist. Research the top weight loss centers in Orange County, CA, and get a diet plan customized for your goals. The dietician will give you healthy lifestyle tips for losing weight quickly. 

You can consult Dr. Allen Jay, a professional and certified nutritionist in Orange County, CA. He has helped many people struggling with their weight management plans.