Do you overindulge during the weekends by eating decadent desserts and forgoing your workouts? If you have a case of the ‘guilty blues’ every Monday, rest assured—you haven’t got a thing to worry about. Or, at least, the following guide is sure to get you right back on track to lose pounds. How? By committing to a healthy morning routine, you’ll lose inches in no time at all!
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Water is one of the most essential weight loss tools out there, and for good reason. When you wake up after a six, seven or (ideally speaking) eight hour sleep, you’re not just thirsty. Chances are, you’re parched. Your body needs to replenish itself, and when you do that with a tall glass of water first thing in the morning, you’ll see how good it can treat you—weight loss speaking, of course. Drinking water before eating breakfast can fill you up and act as an appetite suppressant.
Fuel Up With a Protein-Rich Breakfast
Make eggs any way you like them (scrambled, over easy on toast or an omelet loaded with veggies) and you’ll be able to stay full all morning long. The same goes for all sources of protein: yogurt, smoothies, and berries. Trade in your carb heavy breakfast (donuts, bagels, etc.) for a protein packed breakfast of champions, and you’ll not only improve your weight loss efforts, but will have an increase in energy as well.
Stick to Low Glycemic Index Foods
Have you ever experienced a ravenous appetite, such as in the middle of the afternoon or a few hours after eating breakfast? High glycemic index foods (bread, pasta, sugary foods) taste great going down, but cause your blood sugar levels to spike—leaving you feeling hungry, agitated and gaining pounds. Commit to low glycemic index foods instead, and stabilize your mood, energy level and waistline!
Be Well Rested
How much sleep are you getting each night? If it’s less than six hours on average, chances are you’re not just fatigued, but hungry as well. That’s because when you are sleep deprived, your body essentially goes into ‘survival mode’, craving carbs and sugar in order to horde immediate energy—all of which your body gets when reaching for those donuts, candy bars or bread. Commit to a great night’s sleep, and you’ll reap the benefits of a slim and trim body as a result!
Start Your Morning with a Stress Reducing Workout
Your life isn’t without stress, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a solution. In fact, one of the best ways to tackle your busy day ahead with gusto is by working out bright and early. Take a spin class—and feel better than ever at your accomplishment. Head to the weight room and lift weights—you’ll have a boost in confidence for the rest of your day. Spend just thirty minutes exercising in the morning and you’ll have a morning ritual that’s worth the effort. Losing weight has never been easier!
