My Life Hacks for Cutting Calories

I recently shared how in order to lose body fat, we need to consistently be in a calorie deficit (burn more calories than we eat), and we need to take a very manageable approach.

If you missed that article, check it out >> https://www.realsimplefitness.net/post/fat-loss-and-the-not-so-sexy-truth

Below are some tips for cutting calories. I call them life hacks because they are pretty simple and “painless”, meaning you’ll be skimming extra calories that you probably won’t miss or that will leave you feeling hungry.

Choose 2 or 3 that you can focus on now and commit to for the next 4 weeks. Remember what I said about tracking your consistency. Create a tracking sheet, and mark down everytime you apply one of these methods.

-Use smaller plates at meal time. This is a great mind trick. Food on a smaller plate or bowl makes it look like we are eating more, and it really works!

-Don't eat snacks from the bag or container. Put your portion in a bowl, and put the bag away!

-We tend to eat mindlessly when watching TV. If you want a snack, portion it in a bowl and be done.

-Eat until you are 80% full for one or two meals each day. You should feel satisfied but “light”.

-Put 20% less food on your plate than you typically do.

-Add a bit less sugar to your regular recipes like coffee, baked goods, oatmeal, pancakes, etc.

-Choose a better option when indulging: swap a bowl of ice cream for a bowl of fruit with a scoop of ice cream on top. Or greek yogurt with granola. Maybe a protein bar instead of a candy bar.

-Drink more water! It fills us up and it’s necessary for so many body functions.

-If you have trouble nibbling while preparing meals, chew a piece of gum or mint while you are doing those tasks.

-Want to stop snacking late at night, brush your teeth after dinner (or a time that works for you).

-PLAN a few healthy meals for the week. Include breakfasts, lunches, dinners and snacks.

Which two feel reasonable to you? I would love to hear them!