5 tips for low carb eating

5 tips for low carb eating
Any lifestyle change is a challenge, and for many people, changing eating habits is one of the most difficult changes to make.



Yes, you can do low carbs

Low carb eating is a lifesaver for many yo-yo dieters, but it still tough to stick with it at times. When cravings set in, and you begin to feel deprived, you will be tempted to forget the whole thing.



Since eating too many carbs is much like any other addiction, once you begin indulging in carb-laden foods again, it is easy to get off track.


Here are some tips to help you stick to your plan:


Drink lots of water


You have probably heard it before, but it is especially important when on a low carb eating plan. Here’s why: When you eat more protein your body needs the extra water to process it. Your body needs to be fully hydrated to be healthy. There is also the added benefit of feeling full when you drink water continuously, which will help you avoid overeating.


Allow yourself to “cheat”


That’s right. Once each week (or at least once a month, whichever suits you best) you should indulge in one forbidden item. For example, if you normally enjoy going out for dinner on Saturday evening then go ahead and have the baked potato or the fries. Perhaps you would rather have a glass of wine or a sumptuous dessert. Go ahead. Have the one item, and then get back to the program. This way when cravings hit during the week, you will have a better chance of beating them, because you will have a treat to look forward to.


If you fall off the wagon, get back on


If -or when- you overindulge, do a little extra exercise to burn off some of those carbs and then get back on track. Do not fall into the trap of beating yourself up. It can make you feel depressed, which triggers more overeating for many people. No one is perfect, so give yourself a break. Just vow to do better once the relapse has passed.


Make it easy on yourself


Make sure you have plenty of ready to eat snacks around, so you are not tempted to eat things you should not. No one feels like preparing a meal every time he or she wants a bite to eat. It is very tempting to grab a sandwich or a candy bar rather than fixing a meal. Instead, keep beef jerky, string cheese, packages of nuts, and other low carb snacks readily available. It is a good idea to keep a high protein snack in your car, handbag, or briefcase as well to avoid eating fast food when you are on the run.


Forget the scale and grab the measuring tape


Weight can fluctuate while on a low carb plan. Often the first few pounds you lose are mostly water. Do not get discouraged if the scale doesn’t move the way you want it to. If you are following your plan and exercising, you are building muscle, which weighs more than fat. That’s okay, because muscle mass burns more fat. Do not be ruled by numbers, especially those on the scale. Be more concerned with the way your clothes look and feel.


Follow these tips and keep a positive outlook to make your low carb plan successful.