Weight-loss tricks that actually work

Every day, new articles are published promising rapid weight loss, dramatic slim-downs and abs that pop up in your sleep. Most of these promises come with the lure of magical tablets to help you drop the weight, but how legitimate are they?

You’ve heard about the dangers of using these products, but what are the alternatives? Well, they’re pretty simple when you think about it. Here are just a few to start your weight loss journey.

Sleep like a baby

I’ve probably said this hundreds of times but it is evidence-based and, who doesn’t love a good night’s sleep?

Sleeping well can help stave off excess flab and sleep deprivation actually lowers leptin levels, the appetite-suppressing hormone we all have. If that wasn’t cheeky enough, being tired increases ghrelin, which stimulates hunger. When you are tired, you tend to eat more than your body needs, that’s why it is so important that you get a full seven to eight hours of restful sleep each night.

Eat breakfast

You’ve heard about starting the day off with a hearty breakfast, and some researchers believe that people who skip breakfast are more likely to be obese.

Don’t leave home without having a wholesome breakfast. Ideally, sit down to eat before you start your work day. This gives you time to prepare for the day while giving your body the nutrients it needs to tackle any challenge.

Stress less

I know, easier said than done, right? But when we stress, our bodies secrete a hormone called cortisol which, when elevated for too long, leads to an increased amount of visceral fat around your stomach. The only way to shrink this sudden bulge is to de-stress, so try manage your stress levels before cortisol gets the better of you.

Pump iron

Don’t just stick with cardio when you’re working out when there is an entire section of weights that you can play with too!

Weight lifting is important for overall health and not only tones up your muscles, but helps fire up your metabolism as well. Sign up for a group personal training session if you are unsure of what to do when you step onto the gym floor. There are always trainers ready to help in a gym and it adds to your accountability when you sign up with a professional.

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