How to Lose Weight without Resorting to Fad Diets ...

1. Count Your Macros

Counting your macros is a good way to monitor what you eat without following a strict new meal plan. Macros are carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Depending on your specific desires and needs, you can work with a nutritionist or just do the research on your own to find out how many of each macronutrient you should eat per day. This allows for more flexibility (no more smoothies-and-salads only diets) and regularity at the same time.

2. Use an App

If you know what to do, but you simply don't do it, try using an app to keep track of your eating and exercise habits. I personally recommend My Fitness Pal; it's very user-friendly and allows you to follow your friends who also use the app. With My Fitness Pal, you can keep track of your calories, macros, and other nutrients like vitamins and minerals.

3. Focus on Building Muscle

The bodies we women admire are often lean, ultra-feminine bodies with seemingly no fat or muscle. But the truth is you shouldn't shy away from building muscle even if you are trying to attain or maintain a slim figure. The more muscle you have, the higher your resting metabolism is, which means you will burn more calories throughout the day and, consequently, lose weight! So hit the gym and start pumping some iron—you won't regret it!

4. Detox Daily

I like to start my day with a mild detox drink. This is a very complicated recipe, so read closely. First, I pick a lemon from my lemon tree. Then I put a few slices in hot water. Yep, that's it! No need for one of those expensive teas you see on Pinterest or Instagram, no secret ingredients, just lemon and water! It's a great way to detox from the day before and prepare your stomach for all of the nutrients to come that day!

5. Stay Active

This may seem obvious, but in our current day it's very easy to live a sedentary lifestyle. Adding just 30-60 minutes of activity to your day can help you shed pounds. Whether it's a morning jog or walking your dog in the evening, make sure you get up and move at least once every day!

6. Meal Prep

If binging or grazing are areas of weakness for you, try meal prepping. This limits your options during the week, because you already have all of your meals prepared. You can just grab and go without being tempted by unhealthy snacks.

7. Monitor Your Mindset

The key to avoiding fad diets in the long term is maintaining a healthy lifestyle. That sounds simple enough, but it isn’t always easily accomplished. That’s where willpower and mindset come into play. Remember that lifestyle isn’t temporary like a diet, it’s a permanent shift in the way you eat to improve your quality of life. Remind yourself daily that this healthy you is the new, better you, then you’ll be on the road to success!

The truth is you feel better physically and mentally when you avoid fad diets and aim to live a healthier life. As an added bonus, you’ll probably lose weight along the way! How do you plan to lose weight?