6 Week Weight Loss Challenge: Week #2
Ever since I started this challenge, it seems like the weeks are flying by. Tuesdays get here before I know it! I decided to weigh myself and post on the same day. So now I weigh myself on Tuesday mornings instead of Mondays. It makes more sense (plus I secretly want to lose a little more weight before I post) Even though I've been good, I always get a little nervous before stepping on the scale. Thankfully this week, the results were positive again.
weight week 2
results 2nd
Here are my tips for the week:
Don't eat past 7pm: This might not work and be possible for everyone, but for me, this has been a big factor in losing weight. All of our bodies are different, especially with the amount of time it takes to digest food, so make sure you find the ideal time that works for you. Some people might eat dinner at 9pm and be fine. I personally don't like to go to bed feeling full because it interferes with me getting a good night's sleep, which is very important for losing weight. Tip: Try having your last meal 2-4 hours before going to bed.
Limit your alcohol consumption: Thankfully I am not a big drinker. I'd rather spend my calories on food than on alcohol any day. My favorite drink is Malibu Pineapple, but it's filled with a ton of sugar and definitely not the healthiest. Now, my drink of choice is Vodka Diet Coke with lime, which has fewer calories. Alcohol in general is not good for you, but if you're going to drink, try to make better choices and limit yourself. I probably drink onceamonth- like I said, not a big drinkeratall- but when I go out, my cut off number is 2. I know that if I have more than two drinks, a pizza fest at 2am will most likely ensue. So, I'd rather not allow myself to get that impaired that I start making bad choices.
Eat mindfully: What does this mean? Mindfully eating is being aware of your eating habits. It's being present when you're eating and listening to your body. Are you really hungry? I sometimes eat because food is there, not necessarily because I'm hungry. I'm learning to eat only when my body asks me. Something that you want to avoid while eating is multitasking, such as being on your phone or watching TV. If your attention is not fully there, you'll most likely miss the signal of being full and overeat. Another key point in mindful eating is slowing down and chewing properly. You have to chew your food 20 times before you can swallow it. 20 times!! This is something I'm still working on. I eat super fast and probably chew my food only five times. When you slow down and chew your food properly, not only are you fully enjoying and savoring every bite, but you're also helping with the nutrient absorption and healthy digestion of your body. Tip: Stop eating before you get full-it takes about 20 mins for your stomach to send a signal to your brain telling it it's full.
Eat Carbs: Contrary to what most people believe, carbs are needed in your diet. They are the main source of energy for our bodies; without them we wouldn't be able to function properly. You just need to know the difference between the good carbs and the bad carbs (and in my case, I know the difference but love them both) There is nothing more delicious than a straight out of the oven warm French baguette! (just writing this sentence makes me want to have some, ugh!) but unfortunately, white bread, along with pasta, white rice, pastries, candy, and non-natural juices are a big no-no when trying to lose weight. They contain very little nutritional value and can even cause health problems. Tip: Try to only eat carbs from the picture below.
Purchase new shoes: If you're serious about incorporating exercise into your routine, you need to have the proper shoes. Whether your workout involves running, walking, sports, or going to the gym, a decent sport shoe is a must. Investing in a good quality shoe can prevent injury and make your workout a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. It might sound silly, but having a new pair of shoes motivates me to actually put them on and use them. I purchased the Nike Free 5.0 TR Fit 3 and I absolutely love them! They're so comfortable and stylish!
shoes
If you're having trouble choosing healthy brands that actually taste good, then I have a couple of recomendations.
I highly recommend Ancient Harvest. So far I've tried their quinoa pasta and traditional quinoa, and was very impressed! They have other products, such as: mac n' cheese, polenta, grains, flour and hot cereal. If you haven't tried quinoa, you need to! It's rich in vitamins and protein, is gluten-free, and easy to make.
ancient harvest
Click here for some quinoa recipes from Ancient Harvest.
Right now, I'm slightly obsessed with humus! It's so versatile and delicious. You can eat it with practically anything-as part of a snack or in a meal- but with moderation of course. Too much of a good thing is also bad for you. I used to buy the Sabra brand, which is tasty but contains too many preservatives and GMO ingredients. I recommend trying Hannah Hommus. In my opinion, it's much tastier than Sabra, and all the ingredients are organic. I bought mine at Costco.
hommus
We only have a month left of the challenge, so it's time to get serious!! April 1st will be here in no time. Even if you don't reach your goal weight within these six weeks, at least you have started a lifestyle change that will help you become healthier. You're heading in the right direction and a step closer to achieving your goal.
Remember, there is no magic pill or quick way to lose weight! It takes patience, dedication, sacrifice, will power, and hard work. Don't fall into the fad diets or products that promise you miracles. They don't work and are a waste of money- and sometimes comprises your health. The only way to lose weight is by:
losing weight
Keep motivated and don't take your eyes off the prize. Trust me, it's not easy, but if you want it bad enough, you'll do what it takes!
We got this!!!
