Lose weight the healthy way.

Dieting to lose weight is not the answer. More often than not we look at a "diet" as a quick fix to loosing weight. We reach our goal weight and tend to rebound back to hold habits. Instead, we need to change our mindset to having a healthy lifestyle.

Here are some tips on how you can lose weight in a healthy way:

- Do not starve yourself.

Instead, focus on balanced, nutritious meals that fuel your body and feel good. Do you have carbs, proteins and fats on your plate?

- Decide on how much weight you want to lose.

Keep your goals realistic. Have a mindset that you want to eat healthy to stay healthy for the rest of your life.

Once you have decided on a goal, consider what you need in order to reach it. Is it social support, accountability, or small rewards when you reach a milestone?

- Drink lots of water.

Your body needs sufficient water to burn fat and keep your cells hydrated and healthy.

- Be mindful of sugar.

This comes back to having a balanced plate! Sweets, sodas and pastries should be once-in-a-while indulgences only.

- Watch your fat intake.

Fat is not the culprit to being overweight. You need this to keep your weight at the proper level. There is such a thing as healthy fats. Olive, peanuts and canola oil have them. Tuna, salmon and mackerel have omega-3 fats which is good for the heart.

- Movement.

Move your body in a way that feels good for you. Dance around the house, walk around the block, lift weights, take exercise classes or play with your kids.

It does not matter how much weight you plan or need to lose. What is important is that you set realistic goals for yourself.

Eat healthy, drink lots of water, have enough sleep and exercise. This will give you a higher chance of losing weight and improving your health, which would result in a new, healthier you.

Until next time,

Adrienne