When it comes to weight gain, weight loss or weight maintenance, it can all come down to just 100 calories. Many people believe that weight gain is a result of no physical activity or excessively overeating. A pound of body weight equals 3,500 calories, so consuming an extra 100 calories a day can result in a weight gain of about 10 pounds over the course of a year. However, cutting a mere 100 calories per day can lead to a 10 pound loss during that same time frame.
It can be easy to make the changes necessary to eliminate 100 calories per day. One might try:
· One cup of whole grain cereal instead of two
· Tomato slices, lettuce leaves and pepper strips on a sandwich instead of mayonnaise
· Two cups of skim milk rather than to two cups of whole milk
· Substitute a donut with a cup of low-fat, sugar free yogurt
· Drink water instead of a sugary soda which carries a minimum of 130 calories
When trying to cut calories, also keep in mind that being active is important, too. One does not necessarily have to have a full-blown workout routine. Start small and add to your workout over time. To increase physical activity, try:
· Walking briskly for 15 minutes during lunch break
· Parking as far away from your office building as possible
· Taking the stairs instead of the elevator
· A healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activities and watching what you eat can help you reach your goal in no time.