Losing weight and keeping it off are both much easier said than done. Sticking with your diet when you have a busy schedule can be especially difficult.
Eating right is one of the most important parts of any weight loss plan, but it’s usually the first thing to go out the window as we get older or work more hours each week. This isn’t because we don’t want to eat healthily or lose weight, but because planning meals and buying ingredients ahead of time can seem like too much work when there are so many other demands on our time. Here is a simple guide on how to stick with your diet while on a busy schedule.
Consider Proportioning Your Snacks
Many people eat less than they should because of poor planning. Don’t skip out on nutritious snacks because you have a busy schedule. Instead, think about proportioning your snacks based on what you need for your day and plan accordingly. A handful of nuts may be all you need instead of an entire bag of chips or candy, which can easily cause weight gain.
Prioritize a Simple Breakfast
Breakfast is easily one of the most important meals of your day, especially if you’re trying to lose weight. A nutrient-rich breakfast will set you up for energy and help keep your hunger cravings at bay throughout the morning. Even just adding some fruit or a protein-packed yogurt can help fend off the fatigue as you go about your day. Opting for an easy on-the-go option like toast with peanut butter also helps satisfy your hunger without weighing you down.
Drink a Lot of Water
Your body needs an ample supply of water to work properly. If you’re planning on sticking with your diet for any length of time, you must stay hydrated. Without an adequate fluid intake, you might crave salt or sugar to replace lost electrolytes. Keep a bottle of water nearby and try sipping before every meal. Ideally, you should aim for at least eight 8-ounce glasses per day, or more if your schedule is particularly hectic or strenuous.
Consider a Lighter Lunch
Studies show that eating a smaller lunch will keep you feeling fuller longer. Consider packing your lunch for work. Make sure you have easy-to-grab snacks on hand so that when your hunger pangs strike, you don’t run out and grab fast food or something unhealthy from vending machines. Keep track of how many times you eat out each week and start reducing that number. It might be helpful to plan your meals. If there are any restaurants nearby that offer free or reduced-price lunches once a month, register for them! It’s a great practice for sticking with your diet outside of the home.
Conclusion
Sticking with your diet while on a busy schedule shouldn’t be intimidating. By using these tips and tricks, you should be able to stick with your diet even during busy days. If there’s one thing that we want you to take away from these tips, it’s that being healthy shouldn’t mean being miserable. It doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing proposition. Find what works for you and stick with it!
