Losing Those Pandemic Pounds the Healthy and Budget-Friendly Way
Losing Those Pandemic Pounds the Healthy and Budget-Friendly Way
In a perfect world, we’d all be coming out of lockdown as our best and most fabulous selves. But considering all the stress of the last few months, chances are, many will be far from feeling their best. In fact, a good chunk of the population will have likely gained extra pounds instead of inner peace while sheltering in place. And beyond just being a blow to one’s self-esteem, weight gain also further endangers one’s health, which can be a cause of concern as the coronavirus remains a serious threat.
Fortunately, isolation weight gain is something that you can definitely control and do something about—a welcome treat in a time filled with so much uncertainty. Indeed, it’s never too late to show yourself some self-love by losing those pandemic pounds. Here are some wallet-friendly ways you can take back your health and self-confidence.
Take control of your eating habits.
It’s a widely acknowledged fact that weight loss starts in the kitchen. While eating less is, of course, the most logical step toward losing weight, it’s actually just a small part of the equation. Rather, if you want to lose weight as quickly as possible, you have to address the kind of food that you are eating, above all. At the most fundamental level, this will entail cutting back on harmful carbohydrates and trans fats, while, at the same time, increasing your intake of protein, healthy fats, and gluten-free carbs (Pasta Loioco has many tasty options in Gluten Free and Vegan fresh pastas ).
It sounds like a lot of work, yes, but the fact is, you don’t really need to count macros to lose weight. In a nutshell, it’s as simple as choosing to eat fresh and healthy, as opposed to processed food. And no, you don’t need to throw out your entire pantry and spend a fortune on new groceries because chances are, you can already whip up some healthy meals from food items that you already have in your kitchen. Some amazing recipes worth trying that are both delicious and good for you include a spinach tortellini soup, legume quesadillas, or even an empty-the-pantry stew.
Take the time to move.
Of course, another part of the weight-loss equation is exercise. In fact, according to the CDC, regular physical activity is crucial when you’re trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy body. Beyond that, exercise also reduces your risk of diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, etc., as well as increases bone strength, flexibility, endurance, and more. The best part is that getting your recommended daily exercise does not have to be costly or fancy. In fact, a walk or a run in the park will already contribute to your weight-loss efforts, and it likely won’t even cost you a cent.
Now, it’s one thing to know that you need to exercise, but it’s another to be compelled to actually get off the couch and do it. Well, a little motivation never hurt anyone, so as you try to get back in shape, consider getting yourself some new workout clothes. It’s a great way to keep yourself committed and accountable, yes, but it’s admittedly challenging when you’re on a budget. However, if you shop online from retailers like Finish Line and Dick’s Sporting Goods, you can enjoy fantastic workout gear at great prices. Moreover, if you take the time to search for a cash back offer or Finish Line coupon or promo code, you can get all the gear you need without your bank account suffering for it.
Suffice it to say, getting back in shape after gaining weight in lockdown is a brand-new challenge that you probably don’t want during this difficult time. However, there’s also no denying that it may be exactly what the doctor ordered, especially as your health is, by and large, your most important defense against the lingering coronavirus. Moreover, rejoining the world anew as your best and most fabulous can be great for your self-confidence, too, especially in the face of all this uncertainty. And you won’t even have to break the bank to pull it off. Win-win, indeed!
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