Losing weight is often easier said than done! Knowing the basics of successful weight loss can help you reach your long-term goals, so educating yourself about the best ways to eat healthy will pay off. What are some things to keep in mind? Keep reading to find out!

Many of us simply are not drinking enough water throughout the day, despite experts’ suggestions to consume at least eight glasses of water daily. Why is this especially important when it comes to weight loss? Studies show that people who drink at least a full glass of water before each meal tend to eat less, and this can translate into weight loss over time. Drinking water when we feel hungry can also help to quiet hunger pains – many times when we think we’re hungry, we’re actually thirsty. If exercise is a regular part of your weight loss efforts, and we hope that it is, you will want to pay extra attention to the amount of water you’re drinking. Drink two full glasses before and after you exercise to make sure that you stay hydrated.

We often think of weight loss as involving eating less food. But you will want to make sure that you add MORE food to your diet in the form of fruits and vegetables. You simply can’t go wrong when it comes to fruits and veggies, so give yourself permission to eat as many of these types of foods as you wish. Keep your kitchen well stocked with plenty of fruits and vegetables, and make sure to eat a variety of them.

We often eat out of habit or mindlessness, rather than because we’re hungry. Many of us will eat snack after snack when we’re at work or sitting in front of the television, and the calories will pile up. Many people who frequently snack would be shocked to know exactly how many calories their snacks are adding to their diet! Before you eat, ask yourself “am I really hungry right now?” If the answer is no, don’t eat! Listen to what your body is telling you.

If you stock your fridge full of potato chips, candy, and other junk food items, you’ll eat them. Make it as difficult as possible to eat junk food by not keeping it in your house. Instead, keep your fridge and pantry full of healthy items, such as dried fruit and nuts. Try popcorn – if you put little or no butter on your popcorn, it can be a delicious, low fat snack! Cereal is one food that can seem healthy but in actuality is often loaded with sugar, so check the labels on your cereal to make sure that you are truly eating as healthy as you think you are.

What you eat and drink can have a tremendous bearing on your weight. Make sure you set yourself up for success by sticking to a sensible, healthy diet. Be persistant, and soon you will start to notice results that you like!