Wondering how to get those 2024 health goals started without overwhelming yourself? Fear not – it’s easier than you may think with a few everyday tweaks! Here are our top 10 simple tips to get your weight loss and health on track in the new year…
Tip 1 – Try a little less sugar, honey
Sugar is addictive. It’s a known fact that those cravings are pretty hard to kick to the kerb, whether it be that 3pm slump at work, or the post-dinner chocolate munchies! We get it. But, sugar is one of, if not the most fattening part of that dreaded nutritional info on packets. So… cut back! We’re not saying QUIT cold turkey! Making that simple switch from Milk to Dark Choc can save you some sugar, as well as control your dessert portions! No, you don’t need to eat half of the block in one sitting! Savour it and have maybe enjoy just 2/3 squares a night after dinner.
Tip 2 – To soft drink or juice? Um, neither is easier
The SUGAR content in some of your favourite drinks might scare you. Wondering why you struggle so much to start the day without a nice big glass of orange juice? Or that accompanying lemonade with lunch? Because they are packed to the brim with sugar (that addictive stuff we just mentioned)! If you can’t go without juice, try the 100% freshly squeezed juices such as Nudie, or for soft drink, maybe try sparkling water with lime or lemon squeezed in. Kombucha is also a fabulous and extremely gut-friendly alternative. But make sure to check that sugar content – go for the no-sugar ones. Don’t waste your daily calorie amounts on these very high cal drinks – keep that for your meals.
Tip 3 – Is it really a diet food or a liar liar pants don’t fit…
Have you ever looked at some food packaging with the words ‘low fat’ or ‘no-fat’ and thought, “Oh wow! That must be the healthy option!”. Think again. Often these so-called ‘diet foods’ have been completely stripped of good fats and replaced with unnecessary sugars. Yoghurts are a prime example of these! Do not be fooled! Speaking of good fats…
Tip 4 – Fat is Good! (Bare with us)
Don’t be scared off by eating ‘fats’. Good, healthy fats are one of the most effective way to ensure that you don’t binge and overeat, as they keep you fuller for longer, and allow for your energy levels to be sustained throughout the day. They absorb the nutrients your body needs and are great for your immune system, which right now is more important than ever. It must be known that TOO much of these good fats can be damaging – but like with everything – enjoy all things in moderation. Some of our favourite ‘healthy fats’ are avocado, oily fish (tuna and salmon), chia seeds, eggs and dark chocolate! YUM!
Tip 5 – We are so pro-portions that give nice proportions
One of the easiest ways to shift your calorie intake and get your body back is to cut down your portion sizes. Eating delicious, nutritiously dense meals is great, but if the portions are too big, it can sometimes do you more bad than good. Your piece of protein, whether it be chicken, or turkey, or fish, should be the size of your palm, always accompanied with plenty of leafy greens and veggies, which can make up two palms! Don’t over do it too much, even on the healthy stuff! Check out our blog here explaining some of our easiest and most effective tips to monitor those portion sizes of yours.
Tip 6 – There is nothing refined about those carbs, darl
We know… white bread, rice, pasta, pastries… we love them too! BUT refined carbs are not the greatest of help when you want to be your healthiest self. You sometimes have to get rid of those muffins to get rid of that muffin top! HA!
Alternatively, unrefined carbs, which are the carbs that haven’t been stripped back of there nutrition are great if you just can’t completely get rid of that freshly baked sourdough bread or some rice with your stir-fry (of course in moderation). Unrefined carbs are also great to increase your fibre intake, keeping you fuller for longer.
Tip 7 – Get fresh with your food!
Buy fresh food! It is pretty simple and truly is what we preach, but fresh food without all the yuckies (preservatives and artificial components) added is what is best for your physical and mental health! These processed foods provide your body with little to absolutely no nutrition… not great, right? The best way to think about it is shop more around the perimeter of your supermarket, not in the aisle! MORE of the fruit, veg and deli products and LESS of the biscuits, chips and choc! Notice had we said LESS not NONE?
Tip 8 – Go outside and smell the flowers
As we’ve said before, with SuperFastDiet, exercising for weight loss is not absolutely necessary. You don’t have to lift double your body weight or run marathons! But of course, exercising is great. It is good for your overall health… whether it be your energy levels, your mental health, your cardio health or your joints! One of our favourite ways to get the body moving is to simply enjoy a daily walk! The beach, the local park, the mountains, even just walking the dog around the block is beneficial! And so easy. Get those steps up!
Tip 9 – Trick the clock – and the scales
Our part-day (16:8) intermittent fasting method involves eating for a specific number of hours out of the 24 hours in the day. One of the most popular timing breakdowns is simply skipping breakfast, with eating starting at 12pm, and finishing at 8pm that same day! That is eating for 8 hours, and fasting for 16 hours! It is so great for your mental stability and clarity, as well as of course dropping those kilos. We like the sound of that! 12pm to 8pm isn’t the only way – you can change the hours to what suits you and your lifestyle!
Tip 10 – There’s more than one way to celebrate this year
By no means are we saying not to eat cake and drink champagne at your next birthday dinner or anniversary! Absolutely do. But don’t constantly feel like food is the ONLY way to treat yourself and celebrate the wins in life. There are truly so many ways to celebrate! How about a massage or a facial? Take some time to read a book or watch your favourite show? Or head out with a loved one for a walk or to watch a movie. There are a bunch of ways that you can take time out to celebrate and enjoy yourself – without the hundreds of cals! Always be kind to yourself – you deserve it!
Of course, THE NUMBER ONE tip of ours always being to JOIN US today to be a member of our incredible part-time diet that does not deprive you of your cheese or wine!