Finally! Easy Steps to Weight Loss

Everyone seems to be searching for the perfect diet, the easiest way possible to shed unwanted pounds while putting forth minimum effort.

The fact is, there are simple solutions, though there are no healthy ways to shed pounds without adjusting one's lifestyle. Let's talk about a few of those simple tips to help you take off extra weight without completely abandoning the things you enjoy in life.

Eat half of what you want.

It's as simple as that. If you'd normally order a double cheeseburger, settle for the single. If the toppings aren't really a big deal to you anyway, consider substituting mustard for mayonnaise. Go without the cheese if you feel really motivated.

If you're accustomed to eating a large slice of pie for dessert, order the same thing but find someone to split it with. If possible, just order a smaller portion. If you normally down two glasses of sweetened tea or two bottles of beer with a meal, try drinking just one and, if still thirsty, try a glass of water. Face it, we're in a society that has grown up on mega-sizing everything on the menu. And we've grown accustomed to believing we need the extra-large portion. We don't.

The main thing is, within reason, keep eating the same foods you've been eating but only eat half as much. That doesn't mean, however, that you're allowed to tell yourself you'd really like to have four slices of cake, but you'll settle for two.

Know when to stop.

Set a deadline during the day when you'll stop snacking. Nothing puts on the pounds quicker than a late-night snack. If you must snack - after hours, try substituting something healthy. If your self-imposed deadline is 9 p.m., then no unhealthy food enters your body after that time.

The toughest challenge to this might be a spouse or friend who insists on a late-night snack. If you can't get them to join you in your routine, explain tactfully that you're doing what's in the best interest of your health. Remember, peer pressure works both ways.

Exercise.

Ah, you knew there was a catch. We're not setting up a tough exercise program that only bodybuilders and health nuts can do with an expensive membership at the local gym. All we're talking about is something that gets your blood flowing.

Instead of setting an unrealistic workout goal that you'll soon see fade, try setting a designated number of miles that you'll cover each week. A good starting point, depending on your current fitness, might be eight miles. This can be covered by walking, running, jogging, crawling or however else you want to do it. If you wish to bicycle, set a much higher goal.

For instance, let's say you decide walking is the best way to accomplish your eight-mile goal. Sunday through Friday, you'll get up a little early and walk a mile. On Saturday, you'll cover the other two miles.

Losing weight doesn't have to be torture. Following these simple steps could get you going in the right direction.