My Thrifty Weight Loss Story + Tips: Let's Get Fit in 2013!

Ah, the resolution that tops the list for most- and the one that rarely happens. When processed food outweighed whole food (unprocessed fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains) in my diet I slowly gained weight every year. I thought I'd never be able to undo the damage, but I did!

ALL of the food above is vegan (mostly raw) and filled with nutrients. Healthy eats can offer variety, too!

I lost 30 lbs last year and got to stuff myself with delicious food! I exercise a little tiny bit, but I continue to get to my goal weight with the easy, inexpensive dietary changes below:

1.) Fruits and Vegetable Overload: Eat as many whole fruits and veggies as possible. The fiber, nutrients, and water will keep you full and healthy. Add spinach to pasta and pizza dishes, eat salads with every meal or smoothies for breakfast. Be creative!

2.) Drink Water: "Hungry" feelings are occasionally your body's plea for more H20. Drink eight glasses of water daily. Drink more when you exercise or drink dehydrating alcohol or caffeine. Skip sodas and store-bought juice.

3.) Make it Accessible: Cook big batches of healthy food and snacks ahead of time. Purge your pantries of ALL refined carbs and sugars (the devil!) and replace them with healthy, whole alternatives.

Change is Gradual: I started by incorporating plenty of cooked vegetables and slowly went to eating all raw, unprocessed meals. Start slow, keep healthy choices available and make the steps above routine and weight loss and improved health will come naturally.

What are your fitness and health goals this year? I'll be writing tons of informative healthy lifestyle posts throughout the year to keep us on the right track. If you have any questions at all, leave them in the comments.

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