You’ve probably heard of many tips for sticking to your diet. But do any of them actually work? Over the years, I’ve tried all sorts of tips and tricks to stay lean during the holiday season, but so many of them have unfortunately been epic failures instead of awesome success stories. After rummaging through all the magazines and diet-friendly sites out there, try these seven tips for sticking to your diet. These no non-sense tips are easy to follow and don’t require a ton of time or money.
One of the best tips for sticking to your diet is having a plan. You can’t just wake up one day and decide that you’re going to change your eating habits. Doing so requires making sure you have the right foods on hand and knowing what safe and healthy strategies you’ll use to lose weight effectively. If you need to, talk to your doctor, a registered dietitian, or even a personal trainer for some advice for what kind of healthy eating plan you should follow.
Another important aspect of having a plan for your diet is setting realistic goals. This means understanding your body's needs and limitations, as well as considering your lifestyle and schedule. It's also important to have a variety of healthy and nutritious meals and snacks planned out, so you don't get bored with your diet. Additionally, having a support system in place can greatly increase your chances of sticking to your plan. This can include friends, family, or even online communities that can provide encouragement and accountability. Overall, having a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference in successfully sticking to your diet.
Once you have an idea of what you’re going to do, it’s important to write everything out. What will your goals be? To lose weight? To tone up? How are you going to get there? How are you going to manage tempting foods, cravings, and social gathering that revolve around food? Writing things out is a great way to have a grasp on the kinds of challenges you’ll face when you change your eating habits.
Writing out your goals and plans is a crucial step in successfully sticking to your diet. It helps you identify potential challenges and come up with strategies to overcome them. For example, if your goal is to lose weight, you may write down specific targets and a meal plan to achieve them. This can also include ways to manage tempting foods and social situations that may challenge your diet. Studies have shown that writing things down can increase accountability and motivation, making it easier to stick to your diet in the long run.
Have you ever tried to diet, except that tub or ice cream or bag of chips seems to be calling out your name? A big part of sticking to your diet is removing temptations from your home. Of course, I realize you can’t remove all food temptations from life—there will undeniably be food temptations in the real world. But why not try making things a little easier on yourself and getting rid of food at home that you know will only sabotage your efforts.
In addition to removing junk food from your home, it can also be helpful to plan and prepare healthy meals and snacks ahead of time. This will make it easier to resist temptations when hunger strikes. It's also important to have a support system in place, whether it be through friends, family, or a weight loss group. Staying motivated and accountable can greatly increase your chances of sticking to your diet. Additionally, finding healthy alternatives to your favorite junk foods can help satisfy cravings without derailing your progress. Remember to be patient and kind to yourself, as dieting is a journey and not a quick fix.
Whether it’s a coworker, neighbor, or close friend, having a partner on your health and food journey is a surefire way to hold you accountable and keep you motivated. Call your partner during times of weakness or when you feel like giving up. They will assure you that you are making the right choices by getting healthy and eating better.
Having a partner to hold you accountable can greatly increase your chances of sticking to your diet. According to a study published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, individuals who had a partner to support and hold them accountable were more likely to lose weight and maintain their weight loss compared to those who did not have a partner. This is because having someone to share your journey with can provide emotional support and motivation. Additionally, having a partner can also make meal planning and grocery shopping more enjoyable and efficient. So, find a reliable partner to join you on your health and food journey and see the positive impact it can have on your diet success.
Instead of coming home with no idea what to cook for dinner that night, research some meal ideas beforehand. Look for meals that aren’t just healthy, but also easy to prepare and affordable. Ideally, you should complete this research before you go food shopping. That way you’ll have all the ingredients you need ahead of time.
Sticking to a diet doesn’t mean deprivation. Find healthy recipes and alternatives for your favorite comfort foods. This way you can enjoy them without feeling guilty.
In addition to finding healthier versions of your favorite dishes, it's also helpful to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your meals. These provide essential nutrients and can help you feel full and satisfied. Another tip is to plan your meals and snacks ahead of time, so you're not tempted to reach for unhealthy options when hunger strikes. And don't forget to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Finally, remember to allow yourself some indulgences in moderation, as completely cutting out your favorite foods can lead to cravings and potential binge-eating. Overall, finding a balance between healthier choices and occasional treats is key to successfully sticking to your diet.
Often the reason we experience cravings is because of a nutritional deficiency. Instead of subsisting on ‘diet’ food that’s loaded with preservatives and artificial ingredients, eat whole, unprocessed foods. You’ll feel much better when you eat real food and will be less likely to binge.
Remember that it is possible to be successful on your diet even during the holidays! What are your tried and true methods for adhering to your diet and healthy eating plan?