On the paleo diet, you’d expect to shed pounds pretty easily, since it involves cutting out processed foods, excessive carbohydrates, and refined sugars. I, too, experienced significant weight loss on the paleo diet, but some people may not be so fortunate. In this article, we’ll explore weight-loss tips and adjustments to apply to your paleo lifestyle that can help you shed excess body fat and achieve optimal thinness.
Exercise and Physical Activity
- Get some exercise every day: It is crucial to engage in some form of physical activity daily. Exercise alone may not promote significant weight loss, but it’s nearly impossible to lose weight and keep it off without being active. Consider incorporating low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming or jogging.
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Get up and move around consistently: Even if you’re not engaging in formal exercise, make a conscious effort to stand up, stretch, and move around whenever possible— at least once an hour or more. There is extensive research to show that sitting for long periods without standing up and moving around can have negative impacts on your health, including weight gain.
Eating Habits and Food Choices
- Prepare and consume simple, plain foods: Processed foods advertised as “paleo-friendly” can sometimes interfere with weight loss efforts and warp our appetites. By cooking all your own meals, using fresh and natural ingredients, you can maintain better control of portion sizes and ingredients, which will help with appetite management and overall health.
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Don’t be overly restrictive with your eating: While on the paleo diet, you should already be consuming fewer calories due to the increased consumption of fiber and the elimination of refined sugars. If you try to limit yourself too much, you run the risk of binge eating when your appetite overwhelms your willpower. Stay satisfied and adhere to paleo eating principles.
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Don’t eliminate carbohydrates entirely: If you’re exercising regularly, you’ll need some carbohydrates to fuel your activity. Eating some carbs doesn’t mean consuming excessive amounts of sugar, but incorporating healthy sources like fruits, vegetables, and honey can help with energy levels and weight loss efforts.
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Avoid store-bought juices and opt for water: Commercial juices often contain excessive sugar, which can stifle weight loss. Stick with water, herbal tea, or coffee to stay hydrated, and occasionally enjoy a diluted fresh or tart juice for a change of pace.
Adapting Your Paleo Diet for Weight Loss
The key to successful weight loss on the paleo diet is to create meal plans and daily routines that suit your unique needs and preferences. Adjust your exercise and eating habits to match what your body truly requires, and that might just be the ticket to losing those stubborn pounds.
Before starting the paleo diet, many people report having a bit of extra weight around their waist, also known as middle-aged spread. By adhering to paleo principles and adjusting the diet accordingly, it’s possible to achieve consistent and healthy weight loss results, with weight typically remaining stable within a small range.
Remember that the same specific diet plan might not work for everyone. Experiment and adapt your paleo eating habits to find what works best for you and your unique circumstances. And above all, enjoy the journey to optimal health and weight loss success with a paleo lifestyle.
