FEEL LIGHTER | When you combine exercise, a healthy diet, and a good night’s sleep, you’ll notice that your bowel movements will become more regular, which also contributes to that light feeling.
If you’re overweight or obese, there might be days where you feel as if nothing you’re doing is helping you lose weight. However, by making a few gradual lifestyle changes here and there, you’ll soon notice that you feel lighter and healthier while also losing weight in the process.
Ready to feel better tomorrow than you did today? Here are 13 ways to make your body feel thinner by the time you go to bed!
Feel lighter in the morning
Drink hot water or green tea with lemon every morning. This combination will jump-start your digestive system and promote regular morning bowel movements. If drinking plain water tastes too boring, drink a cup of green tea with lemon instead.
Omit dairy from your morning diet. If consuming dairy in the morning gives you an upset stomach, skip the dairy and eat oatmeal, cereal, granola, and other healthy non-dairy foods.
Engage in exercise or stretching. Exercising first thing in the morning or doing yoga and stretching can help rid your body of toxins and promote digestion. Plus, you’ll feel more energetic and ready to face the day by the time you’re done.
Consume papaya or pineapple. These fruits contain enzymes known as papain and bromelain, which help break down protein, ease digestion, and reduce bloating, and will have you feeling healthier. Add these fruits to smoothies or consume plain as a mid-morning snack with or after breakfast.
Feel lighter in the afternoon
Snack on high-fiber foods. A diet high in fiber will help with portion control because fiber helps you feel full, energetic, and reduces bloating. Eat between 25 and 30 grams of fiber per day, and get your fiber from whole foods such as pears, avocado, chia seeds, and raspberries.
Eat more quinoa. Quinoa isn’t just a healthy food trend — it’s high in potassium and fiber — both of which will help contribute to regular bowel movements. Add quinoa to salads and find ways to incorporate quinoa into your favorite recipes.
Feel lighter in the evening
Reduce alcohol consumption. Going to happy hour with your friends could be one of your favorite after-work routines, but keep in mind that most alcohols contain an excessive amount of sugar or yeast, which can lead to weight gain and bloating. Swap happy hour for the gym, or limit yourself to water with lemon.
Eat more asparagus. Asparagus contains properties that stimulate the growth of good gut bacteria, which can help overpower bad gut bacteria. Visit your favorite recipe website online to search for dinner recipes that include asparagus.
Skip dessert. If you’re in the habit of following up every dinner with a few cookies or a small bowl of ice cream, start cutting back on desserts. Eating sugar-heavy carbs at night can result in weight gain since you’re being less active. Exchange dessert with fruit, such as a bowl of strawberries or a banana.
Consume debloating tea. Mint, cinnamon, and ginger teas can all help soothe your stomach, promote digestion, and reduce bloating. Drink a cup of one of these non-caffeinated teas following dinner.
Go to bed on time. A regular sleep routine will help regulate your metabolism and digestion. Aim for between seven and nine hours of sleep every night.
Feel lighter all day long
Drink more water. Water helps flush toxins, waste, and excess salt from your body, so make sure you’re drinking water all day long to help yourself slim down.
Consume smaller portions. If you’re still feeling heavy and bloated after making several healthy lifestyle changes, it’s possible you’re still consuming large portion sizes. Start eating from smaller plates, and serve yourself smaller portion sizes to really drive weight loss.
Want to find more health information and tips? Visit our health learning center to get more helpful info for your weight loss journey.
