- By Priyanka Munshi
- Tue, 02 Jul 2024 05:17 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Don't you think that altering your everyday routine is necessary for effective weight loss because minor daily changes can have major long-term effects? Rather than relying on drastic, difficult-to-maintain diets or short-term plans, you can build a permanent lifestyle change by making small adjustments to your daily routine, such as incorporating regular physical activity and healthier eating choices. Calorie consumption and nutritional balance can be significantly affected by small changes, like choosing whole foods over processed ones, cutting back on portion sizes, and drinking more water.
Furthermore, adding exercise to your daily routine—even if it's simply a 30-minute walk—increases metabolism and encourages fat burning. These adjustments not only assist you in losing weight but also enhance general health, boost energy, and improve mood.
Additionally, keeping track of your progress—whether with a journal or an app—keeps you accountable and motivated. Applying these healthier practices regularly makes weight loss more sustainable and feasible, which improves quality of life and lowers the risk of chronic illnesses. The key is to gradually incorporate these habits into your daily routine by starting small and practicing self-compassion and perseverance. In a conversation with Jagran English, Ritika Samaddar, the Regional Head of Dietetics at Max Healthcare, talked about the daily habits that one should incorporate for quick body fat loss.
As per Samaddar, reducing body fat can lead to numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, better metabolic function, and a lower risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. The key to effective fat loss is a balanced diet that incorporates seasonal vegetables and fruits, nuts like almonds, and more.
Along with dietary changes, regular exercise and a few other lifestyle adjustments play a crucial role in reducing body fat over time. Samaddar believes that to lose body fat, one needs to be consistent, focused, and patient to see results. She suggests five daily habits to help you lose body fat. She believes that by following these tips, you can achieve fat loss over time, leading to better overall health.
Start Your Day With A Healthy Breakfast
Eating a nutritious breakfast kick-starts your metabolism and provides the energy you need to stay active throughout the day. Opt for a balanced meal that includes proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbohydrates to keep you full and satisfied until your next meal. Some of these foods include eggs, whole-grain cereals like oats, dahlia, and ragi, yogurt, fruits, and almonds. These offer benefits such as muscle repair, sustained energy, gut health, immune support, and good heart health. Almonds, in particular, are extremely nutritious, rich in 15 essential nutrients that ensure you stay fuller for longer thanks to their satiating properties, helping you stay energetic and active throughout the day.
Incorporate Strength Training Into Your Routine
Strength training helps build muscle, which can increase your resting metabolic rate and aid in burning fat. Aim for at least two to three sessions per week, focusing on all major muscle groups, to see optimal results. Some effective exercises include squats, deadlifts, bench presses, rows, and overhead presses. Incorporating these movements will help you build strength and burn fat efficiently.
Incorporate Cardiovascular Exercise
Cardiovascular exercise, also known as cardio, is essential for burning calories and improving heart health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of high-intensity cardio per week.
Stay Hydrated Throughout The Day
Drinking enough water is crucial for maintaining your metabolism and aiding in fat loss. Staying hydrated helps you feel full, reducing the likelihood of overeating and enabling your body to function more efficiently. To stay hydrated, carry a reusable water bottle, flavor your water with fruits, eat water-rich foods, and add herbal teas to your diet. By incorporating these simple habits into your daily routine, you can ensure optimal hydration levels, supporting your overall health and fat loss goals.
Include Fiber-Rich Foods In Your Diet
Fiber-rich foods, including almonds, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, play a vital role in weight- or fat-loss journeys. They keep you full for longer periods and support digestion. I often advise my clients to carry a box of almonds wherever they go, as they can serve as a convenient and nutritious snack option to prevent excessive reliance on junk or processed foods when hunger strikes. By incorporating these fiber-rich foods into your meals, you can regulate your appetite and reduce your overall calorie intake, contributing to your fat loss goals.
Practice Mindful Eating
Mindful eating involves paying full attention to the experience of eating and drinking. It can help you recognize physical hunger and fullness cues, prevent overeating, and enhance the enjoyment of your meals.
Manage Stress Levels
Chronic stress can lead to weight gain and hinder your fat-loss efforts. Managing stress effectively can improve both your physical and mental health. Try practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
Get Adequate Sleep
Quality sleep is crucial for overall health and plays a significant role in fat loss. Lack of sleep can disrupt your metabolism and increase cravings for unhealthy foods. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to support your fitness goals. To ensure quality sleep, establish a regular sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, limit screen time before bed, maintain a comfortable sleep environment, and avoid caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime.
Lastly, Samaddar said, "By following some of these simple practices in your everyday routine, you can gradually achieve your fat loss goals and enjoy the long-term health benefits these changes can offer."