Have you ever gotten on the scale and, all of a sudden, you're 20 pounds heavier than you remember? Are you finding it hard to fit into last summer's bikini? Did someone just post a picture of you on Facebook that made you realize you're getting a little chubby? Sometimes, weight gain can sneak up on you-it happens to the best of us.
If you're looking for quick weight loss without a ton of work, here are seven tips that are sure to get you back in the saddle.
1.
Eat less, move more.
For many women, a sudden rise in the scales means that their dietary habits have changed.
Maybe it was a little holiday binging during Christmas; or that weeklong vacation you spent relaxing on your couch watching television; or maybe you're in a winter hibernating mode after having had an active summer.
Chances are that if you cut back a little on the portions, cut back on desserts, and take a 30-minute walk around the block every day, you'll see those pounds start to literally fall off of your body.
2.
Choose a goal and focus on it.
If you want to lose a quick 15 to 20 pounds, it doesn't have to take a long time.
Why not make it for a really good reason? Promise to treat yourself when you reach your goal-whether it's a hot new outfit, a great pair of shoes, or even an exotic excursion to the Bahamas.
This will help you to keep inspired in a positive way.
3.
Drink lots, and LOTS, of water.
Sometimes, sudden weight gain occurs because of dehydration.
Cut out the sodas, juices, smoothies, gourmet coffee treats, and drink 100 ounces of water per day.
You'll find that you not only feel great, but the weight is much easier to get rid of.
4.
It's OK to snack-just snack healthy.
It's better to eat several small meals throughout the day than to starve yourself and binge at dinner time.
The answer to this problem is easy.
With a little bit of planning, you can keep healthy snacks around all day, and munch to your heart's content-making it easier to eat less at meal times.
Carrots, air-popped popcorn with no toppings, or some raw nuts are great snacks that you can enjoy all day long.
5.
Stop skipping breakfast! Nothing kills your metabolism worse than not eating breakfast.
If you've been skipping the first meal of the day, your body has probably had a hard time processing the other meals, which means bad weight gain for you.
Have an egg-white omelet, a piece of toast and juice, or a high-fiber, low-calorie cereal to start your day off right.
6.
Get more "natural" exercise.
If you want to experience quick weight loss for a small amount, vary your daily routine a little by infusing cardio elements.
Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator.
Park your car on the far end of the parking lot, and walk to the entrance When you get home, walk around the block a few times after dinner, or do some cardio exercises during the commercial break of your favorite television program.
If you need to stop by the mall, take a walk around the entire building, not just to the store you need.
The little things add up to lost pounds.
7.
Eat half...
and then maybe half again.
Eat half and save the rest for later.
That may sound easy, but it is hard to do.
Discipline is the key for this tip.
If you're at home, eat half of the portions that you're use to eating, then take a walk for about 15 to 20 minutes.
If you're out to dinner with your boyfriend, ask for a doggy bag, and then enjoy the other half for lunch at work.