Diet Mistakes You Need to Stop Making!

Trying to slim down but getting frustrated at the slow pace? We all make mistakes along the way, often without even realising it. Here are some tips to prevent you from falling into the diet trap:

Not eating enough

It is logical to think that if we eat less than we lose more weight. However, skipping meals and/or eating portions that are too small can actually do the opposite of the intended effect. This way of eating does not save kilojoules but in fact may just be setting you up for blood sugar lows and the consequent cravings that follow.  In the long run eating too little sends your body into conservation mode so you end up slowing down your metabolism. Not to mention the headaches, moodiness, and energy dips that come with eating too little. Be sure to eat regularly throughout the day by including healthy snacks like fruit, yoghurt and small portion of lean protein between main meals.

Expecting results too quickly

In this age of instant gratification, we expect to lose weight far quicker than is healthy for the body and we do not see results we get disappointed and disheartened at our efforts. It is important to remember that it did not take a few days for you to pick up the extra kilos and so it will take a while as you aim to reach your goal weight. A goal weight loss of 500g to 1kg is safe, healthy and sustainable. Weigh yourself no more than once a week.

 Forgetting that liquids have energy, too.

Often we do a great job of watching the kilojoules in the food we eat but overlook that drinks may be high in energy, too. Sugary fizzy drinks, fruit juice, energy drinks, sports drinks and alcohol are some examples of high-energy drinks. Replace these with water, sparkling water or homemade herbal iced teas.

You eat fake foods.

The shelves are packed with every kind of diet shake, diet bar and diet food available. But while these may be convenient replacements for a main meal, you are never quite full and satisfied, sowing the seeds of hunger and bad cravings. It is also important to consider that fat-free does not mean kilojoule free. Fat free foods may contain added sugars to boost flavour now that the fat has been removed. The best way to be sure is to learn to read the food label and to try to eat foods that are as close to their natural state as possible.