Top 3 weight loss resolutions

There’s nothing like a fresh start—which is exactly the reason so many people around the world clamor to make resolutions at the New Year. It’s the allure of finally reaching your goals and attaining that supposedly perfect life. The problem is, many people ditch those resolutions within just a few months, if not weeks.

Losing weight is the most common resolution out there. Instead of succumbing to weak resolve, why not choose goals that are easier to attain and don’t sacrifice your health? Here are the top three resolutions recommended by our favorite weight loss clinics.

1. Strive for a healthier lifestyle. Instead of obsessing about the latest trendy diets and losing that specific number of pounds, why not commit to changing your lifestyle? Aim to get more sleep, increase physical activity slowly but steadily, and work towards incorporating healthier foods into your diet. Creating realistic weight loss strategies will make it easier for you to stick to the overall plan and once you get used to each change, you can increase or add to your healthy new habits.

2. Prepare yourself regularly. In every aspect of life, the odds of success improve when adequate preparation is a priority. Kick start your programs and weight loss strategies by raiding your pantry and refrigerator and eliminating all those unhealthy foods.  Get rid of potato chips and other junk food, sweets, and as much processed food as possible. Reload your shelves with fruits, vegetables, lean protein and healthy whole foods. Stock your pantry with healthy snacks like almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, pumpkin seeds, Greek yogurt and berries. If you can, prepare some meals ahead of time so that you don’t sacrifice nutrients due to a rushed schedule.

3. Up your fiber and protein intake. Weight loss clinics recommend a diet high in fiber because it fills you up and provides a wide array of critical nutrients.  Lean protein sources help to build lean muscle mass, which ultimately burns more calories and fat. Eat these two types of foods and you’ll stave off hunger and rev your metabolism. Try as diverse a selection as possible to switch it up and get a balanced amount of nutrients.

image: Forbes.com