How to Lose Weight Responsibly

    Most of us are constantly fighting the battle of the bulge. More than likely, we are making excuses as to why we can't lose the weight. Everything from the time of the year to our schedules shoulder the blame for those extra pounds. Yet, losing weight responsibly is not as difficult as it may seem. The following is a list of easy steps to help you do so.

1. Keep A Food Journal

    Writing down what you eat every day for a week will give you a greater indication of where you need to cut back. This is the first and easiest step that you can take  losing weight responsibly. Seeing your dietary choices written down on paper provides hard evidence of where you must make changes.

2. Drink More Water

    Did you know that the brain's signals indicating hunger and thirst are remarkably similar? That's why it is important to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even when you'd rather be snacking. If you are someone who relies on soft drinks and other high calorie beverages to get through the day, this simple change can knock off anywhere from 10 to 25 pounds over the course of a year.

3. Slow Down While Eating

    Eating too quickly is one of the biggest weight gain culprits. When we consume our meals rapidly, the brain does not have a chance to receive the signal from the stomach that it is already packed full. By taking your time when you eat, you allow your brain to catch up to your stomach, so that you do not continue eating past the point where it is necessary. 

4. Add Some Light Exercise To Your Life

    No one is suggesting that you run 5 miles per day or start an intense personal training regimen. Adding a brisk 30 minute walk to your day or taking  to walk up and down a flight of stairs for even 10 minutes can have a major effect on your body's metabolism. Desk jockeys should try to get at least a few minutes of walking in every couple of hours. 

5. Do Not Eat After 8 p.m.

    Close down that kitchen once 8 p.m. hits, because no good can come from late night snacking. When a person consumes calories late at night, the body has no opportunity to burn them off, leading to weight gains. Even if you make all of the right choices during the day, they can be undone quickly.

6. Dining Out Is A No-No

    The more meals you prepare at home, the better your chances of dropping those unsightly pounds. Restaurants intentionally add unhealthy amounts of sugar and salt to their meals, in order to keep you gorging. When preparing meals at home, you have total control and can ensure that you are eating healthy at all times.