Oh, it’s fine to ask! I’m always happy to answer these kinds of questions- I’d rather give healthy advice than someone resort to unhealthy methods. Here’s what I can suggest:
-Don’t focus on eating less; focus on eating what counts. Always eat protein first! Shoot for 30g of protein per meal but that’s kind of hard, so eating 60-90g a day will help. Protein will keep you fuller longer, which leads me to my next point.
-Balance your nutrients. Each type of nutrient has a different function. Eating enough of each will keep you fuller longer! Carbs give you immediate energy; simple carbs ((sugar, fruit, etc.)) give you rapid energy but it wears off quick. Complex carbs ((breads, grains, etc.)) will fill you a little longer, but still wear off relatively quick. Protein take a while to kick in, but will carry you through after the carbs wear off. Fat takes the third wave, giving you a bit more fullness. Which also segues to the next point.
-Sugar Free items are WAY better than Fat Free. You don’t have to try and omit sugar from your diet by any means, but don’t use Fat Free products- what they do is they take the fat but replace it wish sugar! If you want to eat sugar now and then it’s fine, but don’t let it sneak in with seemingly healthy products.
-Drink lots of water! I still need to work on this. Keep your body cleansed and hydrated. They say to aim for eight cups of water ((64 oz)) per day, but it’s hard to do that so even just 32 oz would be great! It’s okay to still drink soda and stuff, just know what to limit. And just like the sugar free thing, drink regular soda if you’re going to have it, and just don’t drink it too often. Diet sodas have zero calories because you can’t digest the chemical compounds, and therefore don’t absorb calories. One can of regular soda per day will be loads better than diet sodas- drink less soda if possible, but next bullet point.
-Don’t think of food as taboo. Food is NOT your enemy. Just know what your body needs. Nourish your body first, then have treats once you get your protein, fiber, and vitamins in. If you want a piece of cake? Do it. Just don’t make it a daily habit. Enjoy that cake. It’s not a sin to eat.
-If you are able, work out as you can. Cardio is best for weight loss, though weight are nice because if you lose weight your muscles can atrophy, or start to deteriorate. However, don’t do weights more than three times per week- the way your muscles grow stronger is that they tear themselves while lifting weights in order to grow back stronger. Though the little tears need time to heal, so wait a day or two between weight lifting to let your muscles tear and strengthen.
-Always keep sight of your goal. Remember, this is for your health. You are always beautiful. Always. And while healthy is possible at any size, some peoples’ healthy is different. Mind wasn’t where I was, and yours isn’t either. It’s okay to lose weight, but please remember it’s for health, not for appearance.
-Mind your portions. Pay attention to how much you’re eating. Try to limit snacking between meals if you can. Pay attention to when you eat simply because you’re bored or tired or sad. Watch your emotions and how they affect your eating.Know your mind, know your body, and treat both well.
I can’t think of more right now, but I hope this will suffice for now! <3 Best of luck, sweet nonnie.
