If you’re struggling with weight loss and need some tips on how to make the most of the 24 hours between the weigh-in and the big day, read on. Weigh-in day is an emotional ride, and it’s not something you want to miss. But perhaps you have a day job, school, or other responsibilities which prevent you from spending the whole day at the weigh-in. Don’t worry – there are ways you can lose weight in 24 hours. Here are five of them.
Get A Running Start
One of the simplest ways to lose weight in 24 hours is to run. Research shows that running for just 30 minutes a day can help you lose weight. If you weigh more than 300 pounds, start with a 12-minute loop and work your way up to a half-marathon. When you get to the weigh-in, you’ll be happy you ran because it will give you a bit of an advantage. A lot of people who run for weight loss also enjoy the benefits of running for wellness, so it’s a win-win.
Hydration Is KEY
Keeping your body hydrated is important for many reasons, but it’s especially important if you’re trying to lose weight. When your body is hydrated, you’re at a lower risk of having a health problem. It’s also easier for your body to function metabolically, so it’s always better when your body is hydrated. Keeping your body hydrated is critical, especially if you’re working out because you will be dehydrated more quickly – which will make you work harder. During the 24 hours before the weigh-in, take a drink about every 15 minutes to keep your body hydrated. You can also drink plenty of water during the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. It’s a good idea to set a reminder on your phone so you’ll remember to drink regularly.
Avoid All-You-Can-Eat Meals
All-you-can-eats (A.Y.C.s) are one of the worst offenders when it comes to weight gain. These are restaurant dishes where you pay before you dig in, and the more you eat, the cheaper it is. When you get to the store to get food for the big day, it will be difficult to avoid these because they’re often the cheapest options. While it’s tempting to get the cheapest food possible to lose weight, it’s not a good idea, especially if you want to keep your health intact. The cheap stuff often has a lot of unhealthy ingredients in it, which will end up sabotaging your weight loss efforts. When you get to the weigh-in and have to choose between paying for your food or having enough energy to work out, it will be a no-brainer which option you choose. Don’t be afraid to spend a little more on healthier items, even if it’s a few dollars more per meal. You’ll be glad you did in the long run.
Consume More Fruits And Veggies
Fruits and veggies are important for many reasons, but they’re especially important when it comes to weight loss. When you consume more of these foods, your body will burn more calories before you even start eating the carbs (from the potatoes and pasta) that make up a lot of weight loss foods. The fiber in these foods will also help you to feel fuller for a longer time, so you’ll be less likely to snack between meals. When you get to the weigh-in and have to make a choice between eating something healthy and filling or having something quick and empty, it will be pretty easy to decide what to choose. If you need an additional boost, add some spices to your fruits and veggies when you cook them (cinnamon, nutmeg, paprika, etc.) and you’ll be able to taste the difference too. Remember – a lot of unhealthy food has lots of added sugar and salt, so it will increase your calorie intake without giving you the energy you need to workout.
Try A Scared-Fat-Free Diet
If you’re trying to shed a few extra pounds and are worried about going overboard with a weight loss program, consider a scared-fat-free diet. This is a great way to lose weight temporarily, while also being mindful of what you’re eating. When you’re on a scared-fat-free diet, you’re solely consuming food that is high in fiber, with very low amounts of dairy and starch. This type of diet has been known to reduce abdominal fat in just a few weeks, so you’ll be able to see the difference as soon as you start eating it. There is no weighing or measuring on this diet, which makes it a little more flexible when it comes to sticking to. When you get to the weigh-in and have to make a choice between eating healthy or having something quick and empty, it will be a no-brainer which option you choose. Be sure to drink plenty of water daily, as any dehydration will greatly increase your body’s fat percentage. Also try going to the bathroom more frequently than usual, as this will help you to lose some weight too. Stool softeners can also be a great way to help you avoid some of the excess bloating that comes with being overweight. In addition to encouraging you to drink more water and go to the bathroom more often, they also help to bulk up your stools – resulting in a lower overall calorie intake. When you want to lose weight, a scared-fat-free diet can be quite effective – but be sure to consult with your doctor first, as there are certain medical conditions which would preclude you from following this particular diet style. This is especially important if you have diabetes or heart disease, or if you’re taking blood thinners (anticoagulants). Your doctor will be able to advise you as to what food groups you should avoid and which ones you should consume more of, depending on your unique situation. For example, if you have diabetes, you will need to avoid all starchy foods, and instead focus on consuming more fruits and veggies. Ideally, you will also want to raise your intake of both plant-based and fiber-rich foods, to help your body in its quest to stay healthy.