All right, ladies, I know what you're thinking: Winter is in full swing, and it's way too cold to do just about anything–especially go for a jog, walk or bike ride for that matter. You'd much rather stay inside where it's warm.
It's during this time, however, when lots of people tend to become less active and–yes, you guessed it–pack on those unwanted pounds! If that sounds like you, and you've also overindulged way too much during the holidays, don't worry. There's still hope. We're still fresh into 2015, and you can easily make some simple changes in your life that'll get you back to a healthier you! Below I explain how. Best of all, they're easy to follow. I promise!
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Stick to a regular sleep schedule: If your sleep schedule is all over the place, change it ASAP! Research has shown that people who maintain a consistent sleep schedule actually have a lower percentage of body fat than those who keep irregular sleep hours. Making sure you're getting enough sleep is also just as important. Experts have found that for those who don't, they are more likely to burn fewer calories, eat more and crave more food.
Never EVER go to a party, event or social gathering hungry: If you're going to an event, make sure you eat beforehand. Otherwise, you're very likely to overeat and give into those bad cravings much more easily. If you go to a social function and you're starving, you won't just have one brownie, you'll have two or three. Past studies have shown that when we eat outside the home, we take in 40 percent more calories than we otherwise would.
Snack in between meals: It's okay to snack! I encourage it. Just make sure you're snacking on the right foods, of course. Experts have found that snacking in between your three main meals can actually help fuel weight loss. When munching throughout the day, make sure you choose foods that are low in fat and calories. While you can hardly ever go wrong with veggies and fruits, don't be afraid to limit your snack foods. Try nuts, Greek yogurt and berries.
Eat more soup (low calorie, of course!): What better way to fight the chilly weather and keep the bulge at bay than with a nice bowl of warm, yummy soup? Liquids tend to make most of us feel full. When you feel full, you're less likely to have food cravings. According to research conducted by the British Journal of Nutrition, women who ate soup weighed less and had tinier waists than those who didn't.
Give stress the boot! We all get stressed from time to time–especially during the holidays and winter. How you handle it, however, can mean the difference maintaining your weight or packing more on. When we get stressed, our bodies make our cortisol levels rise. This, in turn, forces our bodies to hold onto fat. Make a point to have some "you time." Relax as much as possible.
Limit your alcohol consumption: Alcohol and sodas are present at just about every party or social gathering. While there's nothing wrong with having a beer or wine every now and then, do so in moderation, as they are loaded in calories. A can of Budweiser beer has 145 calories. A cup of wine ranges from 110 calories to 300 calories! For most people, one is never enough.
Stay focused–you can do it! Don't allow the winter weather to serve as your excuse for gaining weight by becoming less active and indulging in comfort foods. Weigh yourself once a week. This will help you to make sure the pounds aren't creeping up on you. If you notice yourself gaining weight, you'll be motivated to do something about it.
If you can apply these seven rules to your daily routine, you'll be on your way to a healthier you. Just stay focused, determined and motivated. You can do this! If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to comment below. I enjoy hearing from everyone.
Don't forget to share this article with all the people that you love and care about. Together we can make this world a happier healthier world!
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