How to Cut Calories without Depriving Yourself

Weight loss occurs when the number of calories you burn exceeds the number of calories you take in. Although successful weight-loss strategies involve both increasing physical activity and cutting calories, many people who cannot find the time to exercise will often simply reduce calorie intake. But depriving oneself of calories often means going without enjoyable food, rendering the diet short-lived and perhaps even leading to weight gain down the line if the deprivation is too severe. A smarter way to reduce caloric intake is to cut calories judiciously while not depriving yourself of the foods that you love.

Instructions

• 1

  Reduce fat intake. For every gram of fat that you take in, you need to expend nine calories to burn it off. This is opposed to four calories needed to burn off a gram of carbohydrate or a gram of protein. Choose lean cuts of meats and lowfat dairy options over foods containing more fat. Opt for fat-free ways to prepare foods (e.g., broiling rather than frying). Eat dark chocolate over milk chocolate.

• 2

  Cut back incrementally. Taking slightly smaller portions, using mustard instead of mayonnaise and going easy on the dressing are all ways to still eat the foods that you enjoy while slightly reducing calorie intake. Take advantage of the thinner breads, mini-bagels and smaller tortillas that some companies offer. Cutting back on higher-calorie foods such as sweets and fats will make an even bigger impact.

• 3

  Do not drink your calories. Drinks such as soda, alcohol and juice are all high in calories. If you do not mind the taste of diet drinks, opt for those. Tea and coffee are calorie-free options provided that you do not add cream or sugar. Water with lemon is always a good bet.