One of the toughest things about getting into better shape is keeping a consistent, healthy diet. To help you along the path, here are a few of my tips that I hope will help you start on the path to a healthier lifestyle.
1. Don’t make drastic or sudden changes
Unless you’ve been instructed by a doctor to cut something out of your diet, or you just know that your eating habits are very unhealthy, I would suggest not trying to completely change your way of eating unless you’re planning on committing to a permanent change. Sure, you’ll see quick results with diets like the keto diet, but the moment you introduce carbs back into your diet you’ll likely see that weight come back as quick as it left. A keto diet has its place, but if you like carbs then keto probably isn’t for you. Slowly make adjustments to your diet week to week and you’ll find that perfect caloric range for your goals.
2.Consistency is key
It’s hard to track progress or lack thereof if you’re inconsistent with your eating habits. This is where self-control is going to be super important. I would suggest measuring out your food portions to ensure that you’re actually eating within your caloric limits on a daily basis. Get a food scale and use an app to help you keep track. You may not see immediate results, but give it time and keep with it!
3. Don’t beat yourself up
So you got off track for a meal, or even a day or two, don’t worry about it! This doesn’t mean that your diet is over, so don’t give up. You’re going to have bad days. Shrug it off and get back on track. Also, if you overeat one day don’t try to offset it by eating less the next, just get back to your normal caloric intake.
4. Enjoy yourself
This may sound contradictory to some of the previous tips but give yourself a meal every so often that you enjoy. This may be once a week, or it may be once a month; whatever your body can handle and still achieve your goals. Letting yourself eat something you enjoy will help prevent those days/weekends where you just binge on junk food. If you know you have a party or an event coming up, use that as your meal so that you can enjoy the event and not worry about how many calories over your limit you went. I would suggest however, to not start off right away with introducing cheat meals. Give yourself a few weeks to get into the habit of your diet.