Easy Tips For Cutting Calories

In today's society people are very conscious of weight loss, dieting, and getting in shape. While these are very important to overall health and quality of life, many people do not go about this the right way. In order to get fit and healthy, it is important to develop proper lifestyle changes. Here are some quick tips on how to reduce your calorie intake in a healthy manner.

1. Look before you buy
• Check the food label

• Read serving sizes

• Avoid processed and packaged food

• Avoid sugar, starch, processed coloring and oils

2. Where You Eat Matters
• Select restaurants that offer healthy foods

• Choose small portion options or appetizers for your main meal

• Choose grilled or baked options

• Order dressings and sauces on the side so you can control the portion

• Skip the bread basket

• If you must have dessert, share with a friend

3. Cook at Home as Much as Possible
• Grill or bake meat

• Steam or grill vegetables

• Make enough food for leftovers

• Measure portion sizes- 1/3 protein, 1/3 vegetables, 1/3 starch (sweet potato, brown rice)

4. Avoid liquid calories
• Skip soda, iced teas, flavored water

• If you drink coffee, try to avoid cream, sugar, and syrup flavorings

• Drink water with every meal and try to drink a gallon per day

• Limit the amount of alcohol you consume

To cut down calories be sure to eat every 3-4 hours, snack on nutrient dense foods such as vegetables, proteins, nuts, and whole grains, drink a gallon of water per day, avoid processed foods, cook at home, and get into great eating habits that you can continue on for the long run.