Eating healthy is important for our well-being. However, maintaining a balanced diet can be challenging.
If you are struggling with your weight loss journey or need a diet overhaul, here are six unconventional science-backed diet tips that can help you achieve your weight loss goals.
1. Eat Slowly and Mindfully
Most of us eat quickly without thinking. However, this habit can cause rapid and excessive eating, leading to overeating and weight gain. A research study shows people who eat slowly and mindfully lose weight compared to those who eat quickly.
Try to put your fork down after every bite and chew your food slowly. Savor each bite and enjoy your meal mindfully. You will notice a reduction in hunger and feel satisfied, resulting in fewer calories consumed throughout the day.
2. Keep Healthy Food at Eye Level
We tend to eat what we see, so it’s essential to keep healthy foods at eye level. A study found people who store unhealthy foods on their countertops had a higher body mass index (BMI) than those who do not.
It is because unhealthy foods are tempting and easily accessible.
Store healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts, at eye level in your refrigerator and pantry. This will make healthy eating easier and decrease the temptation to consume unhealthy foods.
3. Drink Water Before Meals
Drinking water before meals can help you lose weight. Studies have found drinking water before meals results in a decrease in calorie consumption.
Drinking water can make you feel fuller, leading to a reduction in food intake and an increase in weight loss.
Make sure to drink a glass of water before every meal to stay hydrated and curb your appetite. This small habit can help you achieve your weight loss goals and promote a healthy lifestyle.
4. Replace Sugar with Spices
Sugar is a significant source of empty calories and can lead to weight gain. Many people have a sweet tooth and find it challenging to avoid sugar. However, spices can be a healthy substitute for sugar.
Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom can satisfy your sweet cravings without adding calories. Spices also offer various health benefits and can help boost your metabolism, promoting weight loss.
5. Use Smaller Plates
The size of our plates plays a significant role in the amount of food we consume. Using smaller plates can control portion sizes and help you eat less.
A study found people who used smaller plates ate fewer calories and lost weight compared to those who used larger plates.
Switch to smaller plates and bowls for your meals. This simple change can help you reduce calorie intake and achieve your weight loss goals.
6. Eat Protein for Breakfast
Eating a high protein breakfast can lead to weight loss. Protein helps to reduce hunger and increase fullness, leading to a reduction in food intake throughout the day.
A study found people who ate a high protein breakfast consumed fewer calories for the rest of the day than those who ate a lower protein breakfast.
Incorporate protein-rich foods such as eggs, Greek yogurt, and cottage cheese in your breakfast to help control appetite and promote weight loss.
The Bottom Line
These unconventional diet tips may be different from the usual weight loss advice. However, each of these tips is backed by science and can help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Incorporate these tips into your diet and develop a healthy lifestyle to transform your body and mind.