Hey there Auburn / Opelika fitness enthusiasts!
Instead of offering insight on what we usually recommend for our clients, I want to shed some light on the other side of the equation for once: What we recommend our clients NOT to do.
Habits That Hinder Fat Loss
Here are 20 habits that make fat loss much harder (and hint hint: most people do them daily). If you’re looking to get and stay leaner, avoid the following:
1. Drinking Too Many Calories
Avoid consuming excessive calories from coffee and alcohol. These drinks can add up quickly without providing much satiety.
2. Turning Fruits and Vegetables into Juices and Smoothies
Eat fruits and vegetables whole instead of juicing or blending them. This preserves fiber content and aids in digestion and satiety.
3. Not Building Meals Around Protein and Fiber
Prioritize protein and fiber in your meals to help you feel full and support muscle maintenance.
4. Keeping Hyper-Palatable Foods at Home
Limit keeping highly processed, hyper-palatable foods at home to reduce temptation.
5. Not Prioritizing Sleep
Quality sleep is essential for fat loss. It regulates hormones that control hunger and satiety.
6. Not Taking Breaks to Move More
Incorporate small breaks to move and increase your step count throughout the day.
7. Focusing Too Much on Burned Calories
Don’t rely solely on how many calories your Apple Watch says you burned. Pay more attention to your calorie intake.
8. Eating Out Too Much
Restaurants prioritize taste and satisfaction, often leading to higher calorie meals. Cook more at home for better portion control.
9. Not Drinking Enough Water
Staying hydrated helps with appetite regulation and overall health.
10. Not Lifting Weights
Incorporate weight lifting to preserve muscle mass, which is crucial for a healthy metabolism.
11. Under-Consuming Protein
Ensure you get enough protein to support muscle maintenance and recovery.
12. Guessing Calorie Content
Read labels to know the exact calorie content instead of guessing.
13. Under-Consuming Fiber
Fiber supports heart health, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar regulation while keeping you full.
14. Too Much Snacking
Stick to real meals and avoid excessive snacking, tasting, and grazing.
15. Choosing Fast but Unsustainable Diets
Avoid diets that promise quick results but are unsustainable in the long run.
16. Having Unreasonable Expectations
Set realistic goals and avoid comparing yourself to others on social media.
17. Eliminating All Favorite Foods
Allow yourself to enjoy your favorite foods in moderation to prevent binge eating later.
18. Not Getting Your Spouse on Board
Having the support of your spouse or household members can significantly aid your fat loss journey.
19. Focusing Only on the Scale
Monitor other metrics like how your clothes fit, your mood, skin, and energy levels in addition to your weight.
20. Not Eating Whole, Single-Ingredient Foods
Focus on whole, single-ingredient foods for better nutrition and satiety.
By avoiding these common habits, you can make your fat loss journey more effective and sustainable.
Keep moving… Stay moving… Stay healthy!
Cam Peavy, Founder of Infinity Wellness
