5 Tips To Lose 10 Pounds
It can be hard to figure out exactly how much weight you need to lose to improve your health, especially since body mass index (BMI) calculations can seem arbitrary and hard to understand. For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, a 5 percent weight loss equals 10 pounds, bringing your weight down to 190 pounds. While this weight may still be in the overweight or obese range, this modest weight loss can decrease your risk factors for chronic diseases related to obesity.
1) Track What You Eat
If you are serious about losing weight, you will have to change your diet. Instead of going by feel, try tracking what you eat with an app or a food journal. According to a study published in The Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, individuals who kept daily food records lost more weight than those who used other dieting methods.
2) Be Realistic
Donβt start too aggressive with your weight loss goals. A general rule of thumb is to lose 1-2 pounds per week, though you may need to adjust that goal depending on how much weight you have to lose and how quickly you want to get there. If a 5% weekly loss is realistic, shoot for a 15% monthly loss instead.
3) Count Your Calories
Before you begin any weight loss journey, itβs important to know how many calories your body needs to maintain its current weight. If you want to lose 5 pounds of fat, you will need to burn a total of 3500 extra caloriesβthe equivalent of one pound. So how do you start? Start tracking! Use an app like myfitnesspal or join a group that helps keep you accountable.
4) Mix Up Your Workouts
Routine is often touted as a valuable asset to exercise programs. However, if you donβt push yourself outside of your comfort zone and into challenging territory now and then, thereβs a good chance you wonβt lose weight.
5) Don’t Compare Yourself to Others
Losing weight requires patience and commitment. If you are constantly comparing yourself to others, you will be setting yourself up for failure. There is no such thing as a shortcut when it comes to losing weight. Exercise and healthy eating habits can only take you so far β if you want lasting results, you need a plan that fits your lifestyle and personal goals. Everyone loses weight at their own pace.
