10 Secrets of “Big Losers” on weight loss

It’s no wonder shows like “The Biggest Loser” are so popular. The money spent on junk food companies that push fat and sugar rivals the rating for the weight loss shows.

Studying what all the most successful “losers” have in common, I’ve come up with these 10 “secrets” of the “big losers.”

1. Make a plan 2. Set reasonable, reachable goals 3. Write it down 4. Exercise! 5. Find encouragement 6. Drink Water! 7. Get enough rest 8. Eat a balanced diet 9. Eat more often 10. Prepare for temptation!

Secret #1: Make a plan!

Think carefully about how you are going to achieve your desired weight loss. What will you need to change as far as shopping, schedules, eating out, etc.?

Secret #2: Set reasonable, reachable goals!

You didn’t put those extra pounds on overnight, so they won’t come off overnight. Start with something you KNOW you can do - one pound a week is much more realizable than two pounds a week. Be ready to alter your goals and not beat yourself up about it.

Secret #3: Write it down

Take out some paper. Write down exactly how you are going to lose those pounds. Also write your long and short term goals. A long term goal might be “lose 50 pounds.” A short term goal might be “lose one pound this week” or “don’t eat junk food this week.”

Secret #4: Exercise!

Weight is lost in two ways. One is to eat fewer calories than the body burns. The other is to burn more calories than the body consumes with work out. So be sure to include the correct kinds of exercise in your plan.

Secret #5: Find encouragement

A diet and exercise program is feeling alone business. Find online and offline weight loss groups for support. You can also find encouragement in books written by those who have done it.

Secret #6: Drink Water!

Water cleans out your system, flushes toxins, and prevents dehydration. It’s vital to stay fully hydrated, especially when you are dieting.

Secret #7: Get enough rest

And let’s face it, when you’re sleeping you’re not eating or THINKING about eating ;-)! It’s easier to keep going when you aren’t sleep deprived and cranky.

Secret #8: Eat a balanced diet

Forget low carb, low fat, no carb, no fat, no this, no that. You need a little of everything. Eat good quality food that’s heavy on the fruits and vegetables and lighter on everything else. You can stay on a balanced diet for a lifetime, and that’s the whole point.

Secret #9: Eat more often

Eating six small meals a day is better than eating three large meals. Your body doesn’t get too hungry, and your blood sugar and metabolism are more stable.

Secret #10: Prepare for temptation!

When you know that you are going to be in an over-eating temptation situation, prepare for it! If you aren’t hungry, it’s a lot easier not to cheat but when you are Eat a substantial but low calorie snack before you leave home.