There are many reasons why you might want to lose weight. Perhaps you are trying to become healthier. Maybe it is for sports purposes like trying to meet a certain weight class. Or maybe you just want to get your body ready for the beach. There is a lot of misinformation surrounding weight loss out there. But today we are going to provide you with the 7 real weight loss secrets you need to know!
Shift Weight, Not Lose It
Perhaps the most important weight loss tip is also one of the most counterintuitive. Your goal often shouldn’t be about losing weight. Instead it should be focused on shifting where your body weight is coming from.
People often associate weight loss with losing fat. But, once they start working out, they are surprised that they aren’t actually losing weight, despite looking more slender and toned. This is because muscle is denser than fat. So, while a pound of muscle and a pound of fat might be the same weight, they will occupy less space in and on your body. So it is important not to focus too much on the idea of weighing less. But rather looking at where your body weight is coming from.
Do Not Starve Yourself
It is a very common misconception that starving yourself will naturally help you lose weight. But hunger is a mental response, not a physical one. The brain tells us when we are low on nutrients and need fuel in response to our body’s signals. But people wrongly assume that staying hungry will make the body burn your fat. This isn’t true. Starving yourself will only serve to damage your body and mind.
Eat More, Not Less
The real secret to weight loss is often actually eating more. Your body needs energy to burn fat. And that energy will come from meeting your calorie needs and ensuring you are eating the right foods. Proteins, leafy greens, fiber, and natural sugars from fruits all play an important role in weight loss. On days you exercise you will need to eat more to ensure your body has the energy to regrow your muscles and burn your fat.
Human Growth Hormone
Human growth hormone, or hgh, is a naturally occurring hormone that controls our metabolism and helps our bodies grow. A deficiency of hgh can cause increased fat mass, fatigue, and reduced muscle mass. If you feel like you can’t lose the pounds even when working out and dieting properly you might want to go to a doctor and see if you are hgh deficient.
If you are, they will likely recommend a course of hgh injections. This can be done on prescription or independently. You will want to do some research into how to time hgh injections correctly to get the maximum benefit from them. And you will need to ensure you maintain your healthy habits while using hgh injections.
Cardio Is King
Hitting the gym is an important part of losing weight. But people often overlook cardio. Yet it is actually one of the most important aspects of any weight loss journey. Cardio is one of the most efficient ways to burn calories.
It is suggested that you engage in some form of cardio five times a week. Or for a minimum of four hours during a week. This could be in the form of jogging to the gym or using the stair machine while there. While walking is a form of cardio, it isn’t intensive enough alone to make a significant impact on your weight.
Stay Hydrated
Recent studies have shown that, on average, people aren’t drinking enough water. But you might be surprised to learn that water can be an extremely effective weight loss tool. The main goal with drinking more water will be to replace sugary beverages like soda in your diet. Water can also help reduce your appetite which will help you avoid overeating.
Beyond that water will also ensure you have the energy you need to workout and stay motivated. Always take a bottle of water with you to the gym so you can stay hydrated during your workout session.
Positive Thinking
The ultimate key to ensuring your weight loss journey is successful is to ensure you are approaching it with a positive mindset. Losing weight can be a great confidence booster and can make you healthier if done right. But it also won’t magically fix any insecurities you may have.
You need to ensure you have taken the time to learn how to love yourself, no matter what weight you are. You will be surprised at the impact a positive self image can have on your weight loss journey. Once your mind shifts the focus of your weight loss to a purely practical standpoint, rather than an emotional one, you will be more motivated and driven. And you’ll be far less likely to punish yourself when you don’t see quick results.
