So many people fall into the “diet” trap.  If you follow a ‘diet’ and can’t make it a lifestyle change without feel deprived, then it’s not for you! 

So how do you justify what your Foolproof Diet looks like?

1.  Track your current diet

Tracking may seem tedious and time-consuming but it is the most effective way to take note of what and how much (or little) you eat in a day.  There are many different tracking apps available that makes tracking very easy.

The one I use is called Fat Secret but there are many more apps that you can use that will help you stay on top of your food tracking.  To find the perfect app for you, click here to see the 8 best diet apps for 2020.

2.  Get rid of problem foods

Get rid of all foods that cause temptation or foods that derail your progress.  Not having the foods available will help you stay on track and find healthier alternatives which in turn will become a newly formed habit and lifestyle.  Stock up on healthy foods and drinks and have those available in stead.

3.  Introduce changes slowly

Quitting an unhealthy lifestyle or eating habits cold turkey will just set you up for failure.  Most of the time if you immediately fall into a strict plan and cut caffeine and sugar, you will end up feeling horrible and probably end up having headaches and cravings which you will most likely give in to and will eventually give up because you “can’t do it”.

It takes your body a minimum of 21 days to adapt to something new so slowly start eliminating unhealthy foods and drinks and introduce a healthy alternative.  In this manner your body will adapt slowly, giving you time to get into your new routine and adjust accordingly without ‘failing’.  Initially some days will be easier than others, just persevere.  You can do it!

4.  Start a food journal

Most of the apps these days will allow you to make notes.  If foods trigger cravings, bloat you or cause any discomfort, make notes.  In that way you will get a better idea of which foods work best for your body.  Not everyone is the same, you need to find what works for you.

5.  Adjust your expectations

Making a change in your lifestyle (and anywhere for that matter) takes some getting used to.  Even though you want to sprint to your goal, you need to remind yourself that this is a process and it takes time.  Give yourself time.  Be kind to yourself.  You’ve made the decision to change and you’re in the process of doing just that.  One day at a time, one change at a time.

6.  Introduce exercise

If you haven’t already started exercise, now will be a great time to start.  Whether you start with a 20 minute walk 3 times a week and gradually increasing that or adding a bit of resistance training, just start moving!  Not only will you feel better and healthier, it will motivate you and results will follow.

If you are not sure where to start or what to do contact a fitness professional to help and guide you to make sure you do it the right way and don’t do too much too soon because that can also have a negative effect on your progress and your motivation.

Go at your own pace!  There’s no need to rush it!

7.  Eat fruits and vegetables

Not everybody like fruits and veggies but it is an important aspect when it comes to a healthy lifestyle.

Fruit and vegetables are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including folate, vitamin C and potassium. They’re an excellent source of dietary fibre, which can help to maintain a healthy gut and prevent constipation and other digestion problems. A diet high in fibre can also reduce your risk of bowel cancer.

8. Drink plenty of water

The human body comprises around 60% of water.  It’s commonly recommended that you drink eight 237ml (8oz) of water per day. (The general and most common rule is 8 x 8oz)

Here are a few reasons why you should drink more water

• Helps with digestion
• Regulates body temperature
• Flushes body waste
• It cushions the brain, spinal cord and other sensitive tissues
• It helps maintain blood pressure
• Lubricates the joints

That is naming only a few of the reasons.

9.  Stick to your dieting goals

Remember why you started and don’t give up.  It will get easier!

Here are a few tips:

• Start small and keep it simple.
• Get specific
• Find an exercise you truly enjoy
• Hold yourself accountable
• Drink water all day

What do you find most challenging when trying to lose weight, get fit or just be healthier?  Do you battle with cravings? Give into temptation easily? Do you like exercise or find it hard?  Leave a comment below!