15 Simple Changes To Lose Weight In Time For The Holidays

Photo credit: bigstock.com

13. Be Aware Of Deceptive Labels

Many foods that Americans eat are actually unhealthy, but due to clever marketing campaigns, they believe that these foods are healthy. For example, many sugary breakfast cereals will claim that they are “made from whole grain.” This is only partially true. Yes, this product probably started off as a whole grain, but after processing and added chemicals (including tons of sugar), it no longer resembles anything like a whole grain, healthy cereal! Does anyone really believe that chocolate-puffed cereals are healthy, even if the label screams about whole grains? This is also true with many low-fat foods. They are lower in fat, sure, but then manufacturers add sugar and salt to make up for lost flavor. Your best bet is to make your own meals from truly fresh, organic foods. If you feel that you must use processed foods to save time, always read the labels.

14. Try An Exercise Ball At Work

For many of us, our jobs involve sitting behind a desk most of the day. If you can’t get your company or boss to invest in a treadmill or standing desk, then buy your own exercise ball, and use it as much as possible during the day. Experts say that sitting on an exercise ball, rather than a typical office chair, can burn as many as 350 calories each day. You get a workout of your legs, butt, back, and core muscles while you work. It might feel awkward at first, but you will be surprised at how quickly you will become accustomed to it. Start off with just 10 or 15 minutes each hour, and gradually work your way up to sitting on it during your working hours. If you cannot do this for whatever reason, use one at home while you are watching television or chatting on the phone.

15. Look For Quick Exercise

There really are countless ways that you can get more exercise, which will burn more calories without even trying. Learn to be ‘inefficient.’ When filling up your glass of water at the water cooler, only fill it halfway. This way you can make twice as many trips to the cooler. Take items from downstairs back upstairs one at a time, rather than putting them in a basket and carrying them all at one time. Use a push mower rather than a self-propelled lawn mower. Rake leaves instead of using a leaf blower. Use a broom to sweep the driveway or patio rather than using the hose. Walk your dog for an extra 10 or 15 minutes each day. Do pushups or sit ups during commercial breaks. Put your treadmill near your television and walk at least half of the time your program or movie is on. Use the timer on your phone or even the old fashioned kitchen timers. Set it to go off every 30 minutes. When it does, get up and walk for at least three minutes. This will give you almost an hour worth of walking every single day!

There are hundreds of other ways that you can squeeze in tiny bits of exercise every day. Those little bits of exercise really add up over time.

Don’t focus so much on losing weight, but more on being healthy and fit. Spending your life looking for ways to stay healthy will help you to live a longer, happier life. Spending your life thinking that you are dieting, well, that really would be DIE with a “t,” wouldn’t it?

References: