9. Practice portion control.
If you were raised with the idea that you have to finish every last bite of food on your plate before the meal is done, join the club. However, while this old-school mentality prevents food waste, it’s not necessarily the best for slimming down your waistline. A much healthier approach to long-term weight loss is practicing portion control, according to 2014 research. Whether you simply serve yourself less or decide to use smaller plates, Best says, “Practice portion control by eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.”
10. Add movement throughout your day.
Instead of taking the elevator, escalator, train, or car, add as much movement as possible throughout your day. For example, consider biking to work, taking the stairs when possible, or even getting up from your desk every 30 minutes for a two-minute walk.
A 2022 study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that interrupting prolonged periods of sitting with just a couple minutes of exercise (e.g., walking, bodyweight squats) can boost muscle protein synthesis and support healthy weight loss.
“Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine, such as walking, jogging, or strength training,” recommends Best.