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5 Steps To A Slimmer And Healthier You

4 January 2015 6 comments

Summer is well and truly over, the new year has begun, our tans are fading and mince pies,  gingerbread lattes with extra whooshy cream and roasts have no doubt added to our waistlines...

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As you may already know from reading my Weight Loss Wednesday posts, I'd like to lose a few pounds, scratch that, more than a few pounds! And even though I've fully indulged in the aforementioned Christmas festivities, there are a few simple changes I'm going to make and share with you to help shed a few pounds.



I've definitely been flagging with my weight loss efforts for the last few months and the aforementioned Christmas goodies try their hardest (and often succeed..) to lead me astray but I'm feeling motivated to jump back on the bandwagon, and there are a few super simple changes you can make to feel slimmer, lighter and happier.

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1. First thing in the morning, drink warm water and lemon.

This unbelievably simple recipe does wonders for your body. Counter-intuitively, lemons alkalise the body helping out our immune system and stopping us feeling tired and rubbishy. This 'magic' drink also aids digestion, throws vitamin C at your skin and keeps the bloat at bay by acting as a diuretic. Make sure the water isn't too hot, to preserve the lemons' nutrients.

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2. Drink water.

I know this is incredibly dull information now, but if you make any 1 change to your lifestyle, this would be the one to make. There's no end to the benefits of drinking lots of water, to your skin, hair, blood, weight etc.
I sometimes like to add a few slices of ginger, lemon and a few sprigs of mint to my water for added health benefits and taste.

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3. Eat a rainbow.

Fruits and vegetables contain phytonutrients which offer a whole host of health benefits on consumption. Different coloured fruit and veg have different phytonutrients. For example, deep, dark reds and purples are due to anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant which, aside from other benefits, make your skin fab.
I find the easiest way to a multicoloured diet for me is my Rainbow Salad recipe.

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4. Exercise smarter

Exercise raises your heartbeat and metabolism, and gives you a post-workout fat burning effect. Instead of one long slog at the gym, double the frequency and halve (or quarter!) the duration of your workout. It's not working out any longer, just a bit smarter.
I'm going to be aiming for 10 minutes in the morning and 10 minutes later on to start with.

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5. Make soup.

Homemade soup is a great weight-loss friend. A high water content, delicious and low cal, you can fill it to brimming with veggies and lean protein for a warming, tasty meal. It's a really simple way to pack in nutrients and lower your calories.

I should probably mention that these tips don't come with a 100% guarantee, and I am not a qualified dietician or nutrionist. I am, however, very passionate about food and health and am constantly researching tips and tricks for both myself and to share with you :) 

I hope that these simple and easy adjustments make for a slimmer, healthier and happier you!