Losing weight can be a struggle for many people. With so many conflicting ideas, routines, and habits of weight loss professionals, the issue can become complex and frustrating very quickly. In the United States alone, about 94 million US adults suffer from obesity. This is more than a 1/3 of individuals living in North America! Conditions that are related to obesity are serious and costly, and can include type 2 diabetes, many types of cancer, stroke, hypertension, and heart disease.

The cost of obesity in the United States is estimated at over $150 billion dollars; it’s estimated that the medical cost for obese people is $1,500 more than the medical costs of normal-weight individuals. So, losing weight is good for not just the individual, but the country and productivity of the economy as well. Here’s the good thing: weight loss isn’t rocket science. It’s a simple process that takes some hard work and dedication. With the right tools and information at your disposal, you can lose weight safely and effectively and keep it off!

Healthy Weight Loss Tips

1. No Late Night Snacking

Set a time…. Maybe 9pm, 10pm or 11pm. After this time, the kitchen is closed! Late night munchies or snacking in front of the television can create quite a calorie surplus without you even realizing it. Try drinking lots of water, brushing your teeth after your final meal, or drinking tea at night instead of reaching for a pint of ice cream.

2. Don’t drink your calories

A milkshake or high-calorie cocktail can sound appealing late at night, but liquid calories can quickly add up without making you feel full. Drinks like full-sugar sodas, fruit juices, and even large amounts of milk can quickly add up. Try drinking water, tea, coffee, and zero-calories drinks instead.

3. Opt for veggies and fiber-rich foods

Eat a large amount of low-calorie, high-fiber vegetables and fruits. Think about this: a pound of broccoli is only around 150 calories! A pound of cookies? Around 2,268. That’s your entire daily intake of calories! It’s not uncommon for people to eat a whole box of Oreos in one sitting, which brings us to our next point…

4. Don’t Keep it in the House

If it’s not in the house, you can’t eat it. Simple as that. If the cookies are out of sight, they’ll also be out of your mind… and your stomach as well. Healthy, low-calories snacks such as celery, carrots, apples, and veggie platters can help keep you full while cutting calories.

5. Choose the Right Restaurants

Avoid going to buffets and all-you-can-eat restaurants. If you know you’ll be going to a party, try loading up on healthy lean proteins and vegetables before. Eating everything at a buffet or party can be tempting, but I think we all know the feeling of the aftermath.

6. Add More Daily Steps

Many people use a pedometer or a step monitor to count the number of calories and steps used throughout the day. Try shooting for at least 5,000 steps a day!

7. Incorporate More Protein

Protein is a very filling macronutrient and helps build lean muscle mass in the human body. Lean protein such as chicken, egg whites, and turkey can help you feel full without piling on the calories. Protein powder, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, eggs, and beans are also great additions to a healthy diet.

Prescription Assistance Programs

While losing weight is on most American’s to-do list, there are certain medications that are needed to control the symptoms of obesity or high levels of weight. Medications can include those that treat type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, hypertension, and certain types of cancer.

Many Americans struggle to pay for these medications while trying to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. Advocate My Meds takes the burden off of these Americans by enrolling them in prescription assistance programs (PAPs). PAPs are programs that get you the medication at little to no-cost to you! We work with your doctor, drug manufacturers, patient advocacy programs, and community outreach groups to state your case and get you on the healthy path. If you are ready to regain control of your health, call us at (877) 870-0851 or visit our contact page today.