To lose weight, eat fewer calories than you burn. It sounds simple enough, doesn’t it? Yet, measuring your food intake in the modern environment is anything but simple. So what if you have trouble with calorie counting? No worries — at BootCampSF in San Francisco, we believe there are plenty of other methods for staying trim than just counting calories. Let’s take a look at a few habits that will keep caloric intake modest without you having to track (or weigh) everything that crosses your lips.
1. Think Protein and Veggies
The great thing about protein and vegetables is that it is difficult to binge on these foods. When is the last time you overate those steamed carrots vs pizza, pasta, or breakfast cereal? Both protein and vegetables provide the body with amino acids and fiber which are essential to having a healthy body. They also provide more food volume without a ton of calories. So the guideline is to consume about a palm’s size of protein along with two handful portions of vegetables at each meal.
2. Drink More Water
Unless you live under a fitness rock, then you should know all about the importance of drinking water. But drinking water truly is an important compenent to keeping the weight off. Hydration is key for
many factors that play a role in weight loss, including digestion and muscle function. Water is a natural appetite suppressant, increases calorie-burning, helps remove wastes from the body, and boosts your overall performance while working out. So aim for drinking at least 64 ounces of water a day.
3. Treat Alcohol and Sweets as a Luxury
First of all, as we’ve touched on before, food doesn’t have to be the enemy of fitness. Treating yourself to some of your favorite sweets or mixed drinks can actually help motivate you during a tough workout. But if you’re going to treat yourself, don’t waste these precious carbs on low-quality sugar. Instead, for example, wait until you’re at a restaurant that is famous for making its own pasta or desserts.
4. Let How Much You Move Direct Your Carb Intake
The less you move, the less food (especially carbs) you should eat. Often you get used to eating certain quantities no matter what your activity level is during the day. So apply this simple rule to your daily eating habits — if you’re not as active on a particular day, then don’t consume as many carbohydrates. On the slower days, stay focused on eating those veggies, lean protein, and healthy fats.
In Conclusion
It is worth noting calorie counting does work. One study even found calorie counters lose an average of 7 lbs (3.3 kg) more weight than those who don’t. But if calorie counting is just not for you, for whatever reason, abide by our tips to help support a healthy lifestyle and weight.