Are you wanting to lose weight and keep it off?  If so, one of the worst things to do is to count calories.  Counting calories will make you overly consumed with food, and will likely cause you to deprive your body.  Instead of counting calories learn to listen to your body and fuel it with food that will give you the energy you need.  Counting calories is short term, learning to recognize your body’s hunger cues and nourishing your body will last a lifetime.

Many people understand that in order to lose weight they need to keep their bodies hydrated so they don’t mistake thirst for hunger, but many people don’t realize that coffee, soda and tea won’t hydrate your body.  In fact both coffee and tea are diuretics and will dehydrate your body.  Soda is filled with artificial ingredients and sugar which goes against your weight loss goals.  The one sure way to keep your body hydrated is to drink plenty of water.  Keep a water bottle on hand at your desk, bring one in the car, and where ever you go and take sips all the time.  Quickly you’ll realize how much your body needs water, and you won’t believe you ever went without it.

Are you wanting to lose weight but feel tempted by something sweet after having your meal?  Did you know that eating dessert can add up to 500 additional un-wanted calories?  One sure way to get rid of your sweet tooth is to brush your teeth after you eat.   The flavor of toothpaste along with having clean teeth will likely vanish your desire.

Ever heard the saying, “Our eyes are often bigger than our stomachs”.  What this means is we’re often looking at food and wanting more, but our stomachs are full.  To ensure that you don’t over eat do what I call “the full test”.  After you eat your first portion of food, walk away from the table and get a glass of water.  The simple act of stepping away from the table will help you access if you’re still hungry, or if you’re eating more because there’s more available.  Drinking a glass of water prior to taking another portion will fill up your stomach a little more (plus hydrate you) and you’ll be less likely to have a second helping.

Wanting lose weight and bored to death on the treadmill?  Are you thinking you can read and get your workout in at the same time?  Sorry, but you won’t get a really good workout if you’re able to read a book.  If you’re able to read a book that means either you’re going too slow to get your heart rate  in your fat burning zone and/OR it means you’re leaning on the equipment and not using your muscles adequately.  Don’t fret, you can still get a good workout and enjoy it at the same time!  What about calling a girlfriend and plan 2-3 walks a week?  This way you can be social, workout in doors or out, and get a good workout!