Hey there! If you're looking to finally make some healthy changes this summer, you've come to the right place. Losing weight and keeping it off long-term is totally doable if you have the right mindset and tools. This article will give you some practical tips and motivation to kickstart your journey starting now.
Forget crash diets or trying to lose a ton of weight super fast. Those kinds of plans never work for long.
Instead, shift your thinking to developing healthy lifelong habits. This is about getting your mind and body into a place of balance.
Be patient and kind with yourself. Changing behaviors and losing weight takes time. Don't beat yourself up if you slip up now and then. Just get back on track the next day.
Embrace the lifestyle changes you’re making as positive steps to a healthier and happier you! Living well should feel good.
Summer gives you a few unique advantages to start shedding old habits and adopting new healthy routines:
You likely have a more flexible schedule with extra time for focusing on your goals. Take advantage of it!
Warmer weather makes it easier and way more fun to get active outdoors. Prime time to build an exercise habit!
Lots of fresh fruits and veggies are ripe for enjoying. It’s a great season for juicing, smoothies, and trying new healthy recipes.
Vacations and travels let you experience different foods, activities, and wellness approaches you can incorporate at home.
Starting in the summer sets you up for success once colder weather and busier schedules hit. You’ll have built solid habits to carry you through.
Nutrition is key for losing weight sustainably. Here are some eating strategies to help you slim down:
Cut added sugar and empty carbs: Avoid sodas, juices, pastries, white bread, pasta, etc. These spike blood sugar and promote fat storage.
Increase veggies: They’re low in calories and high in fiber. Fill half your plate with greens, broccoli, peppers, carrots, etc.
Focus on lean proteins: Fish, chicken, eggs, nuts, seeds, lentils etc. Eat protein with every meal to help fill you up.
Hydrate: Water eliminates toxins and curbs overeating. Aim for eight glasses per day minimum.
Portion control: Use smaller plates and watch portions to reduce excess calorie intake.
Meal prep: Having healthy snacks and dishes ready to go deters grabbing junk food out of convenience.
Take a walk! This is one of the easiest yet effective ways to move your body more. Start small and work up to longer or quicker daily walks.
Try outdoor fitness activities: Hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, cycling, backyard bootcamps, etc. Keep it interesting!
Join a gym or fitness studio: Group classes can motivate you to stick with workouts. Many offer summer deals.
Set weekly exercise goals: Aim for 150 minutes per week minimum of heart-pumping activity. Mix up cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
Track your movement: Fitness trackers and apps help motivate and show your progress. Consider investing in one.
Enlist a buddy: Having an accountability partner makes sticking to an exercise commitment easier and more fun!
Add a support team: Want the ultimate in support and accountability? Our medical weight loss team is here and ready to dial in a personalized weight loss plan, and support you each step of the way. It’s the ultimate jumpstart!
Losing weight is hard work, so remember to also nurture your mental health:
Practice self-care: Get enough sleep, take relaxing baths, enjoy a massage, meditate, etc. Reduce stress wherever possible.
Spend time outdoors: Sunshine and fresh air boost your mood and energy.
Connect with loved ones: Don't isolate yourself. Lean on family and friends for motivation and support.
Rediscover old hobbies: When you feel good, you’ll have more interest in things you enjoy but neglected.
Give back: Volunteer at a charity you care about. Helping others also helps you!
If you’re inspired to kick your weight loss goals into high gear this summer, we can help! Our experienced team at PrimeHealthMD guides patients every step of the way toward developing healthy habits for sustainable long-term weight loss.
We create customized eating and exercise plans to fit your needs and lifestyle. Together we’ll help you look and feel your absolute best!
Most insurance plans accepted. Contact us today to take control and begin your weight loss journey!
