Snack on the nuts that reduce belly fat!
Breakthrough tricks to help you
Thinking of losing weight so that you can feel healthier and fit into a smaller size—but discouraged by past attempts that didn’t work out? Good news! We’ve rounded up the latest study-proven techniques that make reaching your goals easier!
1 Slim down with good bacteria!
It’s long been known that taking a daily dose of a “good-foryou” probiotic triggers weight loss, even if you make no other changes to your diet or exercise routine. Now a new study in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition reveals an easy way to benefit even more: Just take a probiotic supplement that contains several strains of good bacteria (such as Swanson Ultra Probiotic Complex, $15.99 per 120 capsules, Swanson Vitamins.com). ✤ The slimming science: Turns out, each strain of probiotic activates a different slimming mechanism, such as revving your metabolism, reducing fat storage and balancing blood sugar and insulin.
And eat a bean burger!
Protein from beans, peas and lentils is proven to be even more filling than protein from meat, fish and poultry! In fact, folks who eat beans at lunch consume about 12% fewer calories at dinner than those who eat meat. Unlike meat, beans are high in protein and appetite-reducing fiber.
2 Speed by reachi
You probably wouldn’t quit smoking, start a business or make any other major life change without support from others. So, why go it alone when you’re dieting? Studies confirm that recruiting friends to get slim with you, connecting on social media with other dieters or joining a support group
The lure of cookies and other high-cal foods can be difficult to resist. The way to make it easier? Dim the light on your cellphone, computer and other electronics for two hours before bed! ✤ The slimming science: Blue light emitted by electronic devices slows production of sleep-regulating melatonin, so you spend far less time in the deep sleep that strengthens your willpower to turn down fattening foods and increases your desire for healthier foods, report Japanese sleep medicine experts. Dimming the screen—and holding it at arm’s length from your face— counters this effect!
And focus on benefits!
Next time calorie-dense cookies or other foods are calling to you, pause to think about the benefits of losing weight (such as lowering blood pressure and revving your energy). Switching your attention away from the taste of the food toward your goal of better health helps shut down temptation!