Here are five approaches to lose weight and live cook.

1. Use smaller plates and mugs

From a young age, we have been conditioned in order to complete all the foods on our plates. However the oversized plates and mugs we’re using everyday are not helpful for weight loss; they simply encourage us to consume more rather than less.

If you are used to using a standard size plate for your meals, replacing it for any smaller plate may go a long way in helping you control the quantity of foods you eat. This straightforward psychological trick is effective; not only that it makes you take in less but you won’t feel any difference in fullness, because so many times an empty plate has turned into a signal to your stomach that it’s full.

While you’re out having your new and smaller plates and mugs, keep in mind to choose the lighter colors. According to experts, the portion sized our foods would look larger over a lighter colored plate in comparison to darker colored one. This demonstrates human eyes are in reality easily fooled.

2. Portion control

Ask whoever has succeeded in slimming down and you are like to hear what “portion control”. It’s key to successful weight loss but it needs one to have good habit and discipline so that you can control your food portion. Replacing your plates and mugs to smaller size won’t do anything whatsoever to help if you don’t have the habit of smoking to control the amount of foods you take in.

There is no easy way to calculate the portion sized certain foods; what you need is simply some common sense. You can cut the calorie intakes by 50% anytime – just eat half. As an example, if you normally use oversized mug for your coffee, make an effort to take only 50 % of the mug as the quota. It will be difficult at first, cutting your foods or drinks by half, however, you will get used to it should you really have the will-power to shed weight.

3. Eat slowly, chew the food properly

It takes time for that message to travel from the stomach to your brain suggesting that you have had enough to consume. Chewing your food properly and eating slowly gives the mind time to process. Give up eating the moment you feel full. This is a great way to stop yourself from overeating.

4. Choose low calories foods.

Example of low calories foods include steamed vegetables, fruit, and salad with dressing quietly. Choose chicken or fish over red meats; and select whole grain bread and eat one serving only.

5. Choose sugar-free drinks

As opposed to sugar sweetened drinks, order plain water or unsweetened iced tea. You don’t only need water to keep you hydrated each day, but it can also provide you with that feeling of fullness which can help you avoid having to snack. When you do exercise, always keep a small bottle of water with you at all times. This way, you’ll be able to keep hydrated and forget about those sugar sweetened drinks.

Just thought you may be interested in reading this guide: easy ways to lose weight and rapid weight loss diets.