RVNA Health Source: How to Lose Weight
Many of us carry a little extra weight, and that weight puts a strain on our hearts and affects our overall health. Losing weight can be challenging and requires changing ingrained habits and making healthy choices without feeling deprived.
Eating mindfully, and not on the run, is helpful, as is listening to your body and eating when you’re hungry. Here are five strategies that are proven to work in helping to lose those extra pounds.
1) Since home cooked food is generally lower in calories, salt and fat, take the time to prepare home cooked meals. Plan menus and shop carefully for convenient and nutritious foods like precut vegetables and cooked whole grains; stock up on healthy snacks like fruit, nuts, and low-fat cheeses.
2) Eat slowly. Research indicates that it takes 20 minutes for your brain to register the “I’m full” message, so try and spend at least 20 minutes between your first bite and your last.
3) Spread your calories out as evenly as possible throughout the day. Aim to eat several small meals and snacks consisting of fruits, vegetables and lean sources of protein, and drink water regularly to stay hydrated. Skip or minimize caffeinated drinks and alcohol.
5) Weigh yourself weekly and keep a record. It’s not always easy to track food consumption but stepping on the scale is a sure fire way to see if you’re staying on track with your weight loss goals.
Founded in 1914, RVNA is an accredited non-profit Medicare-certified home healthcare agency that also supports public health and safety, and promotes the highest quality of life. RVNA provides compassionate care to all individuals, whether young or old, through a continuum of care that encompasses health care at home and in the community. RVNA also provides home health aides and companionship through a non-medical subsidiary called HomeCare by RVNA and outpatient physical, occupational and speech therapy in its Rehab by RVNA facility at 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield.
Visit RVNA at www.ridgefieldvna.org