I Lost 146 Pounds and Here's What I Do to Keep It Off
Are you looking to lose a lot of weight without going to extremes? There are a few simple habits you can incorporate into your routine that are game-changing in terms of weight loss. Weight loss influencer Mike (@jigglymike) has amassed a following for sharing all the tips and tricks that helped him lose 146 pounds. Here are 5 simple changes he made to his diet and eating habits that helped him drop weight and keep it off.
Mike Meal Plans
One tactic that Mike uses to lose weight is meal planning. He regularly shares videos detailing everything he eats in a day and explains that he plans his meals ahead of time – especially when he works 11-hour days.
Here Is Why You Should Consider Meal Planning
Studies have found that the more meals you eat prepared away from home, the higher your risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and early death. One study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity found that meal planning was associated with a healthier diet and less obesity.
He Eats Lots of Protein
In one video, Mike shares his weekly shopping list, revealing that he bases his meals around protein. "For the protein sources, we have extra lean ground beef and some super extra lean ground Turkey breast."
Here Is Why Eating Enough Protein Is Important
There is ample research that consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW) but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets.
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He Doesn't Drink His Calories
Mike just says no to high calorie sodas. In a recent video, Mike reveals that he brings Diet Dr. Pepper to work with him. He also drinks zero calorie water flavor packs with his water and energy drinks to offer a boost of caffeine.
Here Is Why You Should Swap Regular Soda for Diet Soda
"Diet soda will be calorie-free versus a lot of sugar in regular soda, which means a lot of empty calories that don't provide any fullness either," explains Body Network's Resident RDN, Tara Collingwood, and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies.
He Supplements with Creatine
Mike also supplements with creatine." This is the only supplement I currently take because I don't feel like buying any others, but I will take a scoop of this after I'm done eating lunch," he says.
Here Is Why You Should Consider Creatine
The Mayo Clinic explains that creatine can help with Strength, muscle size and performance. "Oral creatine use might allow an athlete to do more work during reps or sprints, leading to greater gains in strength, muscle mass and performance. Creatine is often used by athletes involved in high-intensity intermittent activities that require a rapid recovery during training and competition," they say. It can also help prevent injury. "Oral creatine might reduce the frequency of dehydration, muscle cramping, and injuries to the muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons and nerves."
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Healthy Condiments for On-the-Go Flavor
Mike has also revealed in his many videos that he packs healthy condiments. This includes Chipotle Tabasco sauce and Sweet Baby Rays, no sugar added, and sweet and spicy barbecue sauce.
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Smart Condiment Swaps Cut Sneaky Calories
Most weight loss experts remind that condiments often contain lots of hidden calories. Many people forget to include these when tallying up their daily food intake. Swapping out high calorie condiments for lower sugar, lower calorie options will help you cut hundreds of calories per day.
💪🔥Body Booster: Ditch sugary sodas and opt for zero-calorie alternatives like diet soda, flavored water, or caffeinated drinks. This simple swap can save you hundreds of calories per day and support your weight loss goals.