Whether you are trying to lose 5 or 50 pounds you don't need a fancy diet to do so. All you need to do is kick these bad eating habits to the curb for a healthier and happier you.
You’re snacking way too often.
Snacking is something a lot of us do without noticing. It's easy to grab a bag of chips while on the couch just to have something to do. If you need a snack during the day try peanut butter or carrots and hummus.
You find yourself eating dinner late at night.
Late night dinners can lead to overeating. When you're tired and lazy at the end of the day all you want to do is eat anything and everything in sight. Then you go straight to bed after eating so much. Plan ahead and eat a little earlier in the day.
Starbucks frappucinos are your go-to caffeine drink.
While coffee doesn't have many calories, all the sugar, milk and syrups sure do. Many Starbucks specialty drinks can be close to 600 calories! Instead opt for an iced coffee or a tea to get caffeine without all the extra calories.
You’re skipping breakfast altogether.
We're sure you've probably heard the saying "breakfast is the most important meal of the day." Well, it's true. Eating breakfast in the morning helps rev up your metabolism and keeps you full until lunch. Start off with a simple breakfast of egg whites and whole grain toast and if you're on the go, just grab a low sugar protein bar!
Your body is lacking sleep.
Not getting enough sleep can cause your body to feel even hungrier. Lack of sleep can increase your appetite and cause fat storage. Make sure to hit the hay at a reasonable hour and get about eight hours of sleep a night.
You aren’t getting enough protein.
Of course vegetables and fruit are good sources of vitamins and nutrients in your diet, but so is protein. Protein is what keeps you full for longer. Just eating carbs at a meal won't tie you over and you'll often feel hungry and hour later.
You go to the grocery store hungry.
We don't know about you, but we're guilty of this one. You're starving, walk into the grocery store and pick up everything in site. Choose to eat a healthy snack before shopping and you'll make better choices during your trip.
You eat when you’re bored.
We've all done this before. You sit in front of the TV with a bag of popcorn and before you know it, the whole bag is gone. Avoid eating in front of any distractions and really focus on enjoying what you're eating.
You’re constantly eating meals on the go.
If your job takes you on the road a lot, it's easy to just stop at a fast food place. Instead, plan ahead and pack healthy meals to bring with you on the road. Portion your meals out in baggies to avoid overeating.
You let your diet go down the drain when you’re out to eat.
Going to a restaurant with your friends or family is a fun experience but that doesn't mean your diet has to go down the drain. Don't arrive at the restaurant super hungry because you'll be more likely to overeat. Opt for healthier items on the menu and you can always ask to substitute or take out items.
You aren’t watching your portions.
Portion size is very important when it comes to eating the appropriate amount. Try using smaller plates, eat slower, and stop eating when you're full.
You’re confusing fat-free with calorie-free.
Although those cookies may be fat free, they still have carbs and calories. Eating ten of them at a time doesn't make them healthy. Read the label and opt for more nutritious foods that are lower in calories, like fruit.
You’re taking in too many calories from drinks.
Although you aren't eating them, drinks sure do have a lot of calories. Beers, wine and especially mixed drinks are packed with carbs, sugar and unnecessary calories.. Keep the drinks to a minimum and only indulge in them when you really want to.
Your go-to condiment is mayo.
Mayo can pack on a lot of unwanted calories. Instead opt for a low fat version of mayo or even better, mustard. Mustard is lower in calories and still provides your sandwich with added flavor. Pile it high with a ton of veggies for even more flavor and crunch.
You snack when you’re upset.
Many people eat when they're stressed out or upset. Try to take your mind off food and your worries by doing other things you enjoy. You can also keep a food journal to keep track of what you're eating.
You fall victim to sleep-induced hunger.
When you're overly tired after a long day at work it is easy to come home and mindlessly eat. Instead of reaching for another plate of food, try napping, or just go to bed if it's later at night.
You lose track of how much you eat at work.
Getting swamped at work can often lead to overeating because you have your mind on other things. Plan ahead and pack your lunch the night before so you know you'll have healthy choices to eat while at work. Make sure to take at least 15 minutes to unwind and enjoy your lunch.