What to know the one secret to losing weight? The secret is — get ready for it — there is no one thing that does it. It's a lot of little things that add up to big results. And here are some ideas.
POPSUGAR Photography | Benjamin Stone
Follow the 80/20 rule, which means eating clean 80 percent of the time and indulging a little 20 percent of the time.
Every time you get an urge to eat when you're not hungry, do 10 push-ups.
Choose a whole-wheat wrap instead of two slices of wheat bread.
Chew gum while cooking to keep from snacking.
Keep cut-up fruits and veggies in the fridge to grab for snacks or easy meals.
Sit on a yoga ball instead of a chair to work your core. Or get one of those standing desks.
Eat in front of a person rather than a screen. It cuts down on mindless eating and makes you more accountable for each bite.
Make 150-calorie nonperishable snack packs to keep in your purse, gym bag, and office drawer. Nuts are a great option since they keep you fuller longer and boost your metabolism.
When making cookies, bake half the batch and scoop the rest into ice-cube trays. When your sweet tooth kicks in, pop out one and bake it to satisfy your craving without breaking the calorie bank.
Halfway through your meal, stop and drink some water and decide if you're really hungry for the rest or if you're just eating it because it's on your plate.
Don't just stand there! Do squats while brushing your teeth, calf raises while standing in line, or lunges while chatting on the phone.
Add protein powder to sweet recipes (like these Rice Krispies treats) to boost the nutrition.
Keep weights in the living room so you can do some reps while watching TV.
Instead of cream cheese or butter on bread or bagels, spread almond or peanut butter. The healthy fats satiate hunger and can decrease belly fat.
Choose wet snacks such as melon, peppers, cherry tomatoes, or celery. Their water content will fill you up and prevent bloating.
Cut veggies into larger-size chunks. The more chewing you have to do, the slower you'll eat, allowing your brain to recognize the "I'm full" sensation.
Add fiber-rich greens, avocado, chia seeds, flaxmeal, and berries to your smoothie to satiate hunger for hours.
Keep a food journal and email it every night to a friend or family member. The accountability will keep you honest.
At the beginning of the week, prepare a big container of salad to keep in the fridge. If the salad is already made, you're more likely to get greens with your dinner.
Brush your teeth right after each meal and snack to avoid noshing on your co-worker's bowl of M&M's.
Before your entrée arrives, ask the waitperson to bring you a to-go container so you can package half to save for later.
Double dinner recipes so you can have the leftovers for lunch.
Add an extra five minutes to your cardio routine.
When boredom, depression, or stress causes cravings, find a nonfood way to satisfy them, such as going for a walk, calling a friend, taking a bath, reading a book, or doing some yoga.
Keep a reusable water bottle on your desk to sip often. Staying hydrated can satiate hunger and cravings, reduce bloating, and keep you more alert.
Once a week, snap a photo of yourself so you can see proof of your body changing. Weight-loss jars are also a great visual reminder of reaching your goal.