How to Lose Holiday Pounds

The holiday season has passed leaving people with memories, useful and not so useful gifts, and a few extra pounds. Since the pounds are not as easy to hide as the not so useful gifts in the closet, many are diligently working on losing them.

Sports seem to be one of the most popular ways to lose weight among people of all ages. Many believe that it is the healthiest and the most effective method because it actually helps keep the pounds off.

Health experts strongly recommend running for weight loss. They say that it is definitely far more effective, when compared to other forms of physical workouts. Running one mile leads to losing 100 calories, so running 25- 30 miles a week can help burn as much as 3000, which is almost one pound of fat. It might seem like not enough, but experts suggest losing ¾ of a pound to two pounds a week, because losing more might lead to health problems and to gaining these pounds back quickly.

For people who don't like to run, health experts suggest walking. Walking in moderate pace can burn almost as many calories as running, and it is usually more convenient, since it can be done almost anywhere.

Some people like walking in the mall, because it is nice to be able to glance at the store displays at the same time, and because this exercise can be done in any weather.

Losing weight usually comes naturally for those who are involved in sports. Long hours of practicing help lose even the most stubborn pounds and bring the bodies to their pre-holiday shape quickly.

Even though exercising and sports are great ways to lose extra pounds, many people use alternative methods and find them just as effective.

One of my friends swears that he tends to lose weight quickly when he stops drinking soda. My neighbor's tip is to eat smaller portions or replace a meal with a protein bar. Among other popular tips are drinking lots of water before meals; eating the last meal not later than 7 pm and sleeping well. A few people mentioned that eating more fruits and vegetables while reducing carbohydrates as well avoiding all junk food helps them lose weight fast.

Recent studies have shown that a high protein, low carbohydrate diet is most effective at reducing hunger and promoting weight loss, at least in the short term, according to the Science Daily.

No matter how many pounds you gained and how desperate you are to lose them, remember that health is more important than appearance. Whether you choose running as your weight loss strategy, a no-soda rule or a low-carb diet, keep in mind that losing weight is not going to make you a better person, and it will not always make you a happier one either.