Weight loss is a major concern for millions of people all over the world.

While dieting, exercises, and weight loss pills are traditional ways of losing weight, they may not always work due to several factors, including underlying health conditions and genetics. Fortunately, there are innovative and surprising ways to get rid of those extra pounds; some of them may even surprise you!.

1. Drink Water Before Meals

Drinking water before meals significantly reduces the amount of food you eat, thereby helping you to lose weight.

According to a study, drinking 16 ounces of water before meals helped participants lose 44% more weight than those who didn’t drink water. Drinking water also boosts metabolism, which burns calories, thus promoting weight loss.

2. Chew More

Chewing food more instead of just swallowing it helps to decrease food intake. It also helps to reduce calorie intake, leading to weight loss.

Consuming slower helps to improve digestion, reduce bloating, and maintain satiety levels for longer, all of which support weight loss.

3. Get Enough Sleep

Inadequate sleep has been linked to weight gain and obesity. Sleep-deprived people tend to crave more fatty and sugary foods, leading to increased calorie intake.

A study found that people who slept less than 6 hours per night were 27% more likely to become obese than those who slept 7-9 hours per night. Getting enough sleep helps to reduce hunger cravings and aids in weight loss.

4. Laugh More

Laughter is said to be the best medicine, but it can also aid in weight loss. When you laugh, your body releases endorphins, which reduce stress hormones and promote a positive mood.

A study found that 15 minutes of laughter increased energy expenditure by 10-20 calories, equivalent to up to 4 pounds of weight loss per year. Laughing also helps to tone abdominal muscles, which can lead to a flatter stomach.

5. Reduce Stress Levels

Stress contributes to weight gain by increasing cortisol levels, a hormone associated with weight gain. People under stress tend to eat more unhealthy foods and engage in less physical activity, leading to weight gain.

To reduce stress levels, you can practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

6. Serve Smaller Portions

Portion control plays a vital role in weight management. The larger the portions, the higher the calorie intake. To reduce calorie intake, serve smaller portions by using smaller plates, measuring cups, and spoons.

By doing this, you are training your brain to eat less and be satisfied with smaller portions.

7. Walk More

Walking is an excellent way to lose weight without having to engage in high-intensity workouts. Walking for 30 minutes per day can help to burn up to 150 calories.

Walking also improves cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, and reduces stress levels, all of which support weight loss.

8. Add Spices to Your Meals

Spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and cumin, have metabolism-boosting properties, which aid in weight loss. These spices help to increase thermogenesis, which is the process of burning calories to produce heat.

Adding spices to your meals also improves insulin sensitivity, lowers blood sugar levels, and reduces cravings for sugary foods.

9. Choose Whole Foods

Whole foods are minimally processed foods that contain all their natural nutrients. They are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them more filling and satisfying to eat.

Foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, and legumes are excellent options for weight loss.

10. Have a Meal Plan

Planning your meals helps to reduce the risk of overeating and consuming unhealthy foods. It also helps to ensure that you are getting all the necessary nutrients for a healthy body.

A meal plan involves deciding what you will eat for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks for the week. This way, you can shop for groceries accordingly, prepare healthy meals, and avoid the temptation of unhealthy foods.

Conclusion

There are several ways to shed extra pounds that may surprise you.

Drinking water before meals, chewing more, getting enough sleep, laughing more, reducing stress levels, serving smaller portions, walking more, adding spices to your meals, choosing whole foods, and having a meal plan are innovative and effective ways to lose weight.