by Diana Smith: The spring is finally here, but that also means that the summer is just about to hit us with plenty of sun, beach outings and bikinis…
So, if you find yourself still carrying the winter weight, it’s time to adjust your diet and get some physical activity. But, before you start starving yourself or spending hours and hours at the gym, take a look at this little guide that will help you get your summer body ready without endangering your health.
Exercise smart
Spending hours lifting weights in the gym will help you bulk up, but not exactly lose weight. So, ditch the weights for some interval training! These sessions are short and effective and they will leave you gasping for air in only 30 minutes. Interval training helps boost your metabolism, burn a lot of calories and even continue burning them long after you’ve finished your workout! There are many amazing HIIT programs you can find online, so get the one you like and hit it off.
Wheat instead of white
Yes, exercise is important, but every sexy summer body is made in the kitchen! So, adjust your diet and watch the weight melt. For instance, one easy way to lose weight is to switch from white carbs to whole grain/whole wheat carbs. They contain more fiber, suppress your appetite, boost your metabolism and keep your stomach healthy!
Eat several smaller portions a day
Munching down on five smaller portions a day can help keep you fuller for a longer time, speed up your metabolism and prevent your body from entering starvation mode. That doesn’t mean you can enjoy five huge meals and still lose weight! Your new diet should be full of protein, good fats and fiber and consist of three normal meals and two small snacks in between.
If you think this involves too much cooking, just grab a good microwave and you’re set. For instance, some stylish Bosch microwaves have a timer and an auto reheat option that allows you to go about your day and come to a warm and tasty meal when you’re done! You don’t have to spend time hunched over the stove!
Use fat to burn fat
It might seem contradictory, but you need good fats to burn bad fats. For instance, fats from fish, nuts, avocado and olive oil help control your appetite, your insulin levels AND keep your brain working full speed. Of course, that doesn’t mean you can drown your salad in olive oil! Use these good fats moderately through food or supplementation.
Choose the right dessert
If you have a sweet tooth that demands to be satisfied, just know that there are some good dessert options that will not ruin your progress. For instance, all the coffee drinkers can rejoice and enjoy their black caffeinated drink as before. However, those who don’t take their coffee black, there are Skinny Lattes that are pretty low-calorie. If you’re craving something solid but sweet, grab a granola bar or make a diet-friendly dessert! Just don’t succumb and grab a Kit Kat…
If you want to stay healthy, strong and radiant, you must hydrate, but ditch all the sugary sodas and opt for good old water. Water will not only boost your metabolism and cut sugar from your diet, but also make you feel fuller, suppress your appetite, and make your skin radiant.
These six simple tips will help you get that beach body you’ve always dreamed about. And if you keep up with this lifestyle even after the summer is over, you’ll be healthy, strong and invigorated and have a body that inspires jealousy all year round!
