No Exercise? No Problem: Still Lose Weight

Can you lose weight without exercise? Exercise is terrific for your body and mind in many ways. So, exercise equals health, and we should all move our bodies every day.

However, when it comes to losing weight, what you eat is key—and studies show there are plenty of weight-loss strategies that have nothing to do with exercise. Check out these 14 science-backed, slim-down tips.

• Control your portions—eat from smaller plates and bowls.
• Eat more fiber—it expands in your gut so it’s a natural appetite suppressant.
• Load up on protein—protein takes more energy to digest than, say, fat or carbs.
• Get enough sleep—sleep deprivation can lead to weight gain.
• Weigh yourself two to three times a week—this can help you nip weight gain in the bud.
• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate—drink a large glass of water between meals and on the go.
• Cut down on sugar—the sweet stuff is hidden in all sorts of foods, not only desserts.
• Don’t drink your calories—drinking calories doesn’t lead to the same feeling of fullness.
• Eat slower and more mindfully—your brain needs to catch up with your mouth.
• Chew more—prolonged chewing leads to less snacking during the day.
• Stash food out of sight—Apples? Fine to keep in your line of sight. Chips? Nuh uh.
• Cut out diet sodas—drinking diet beverages means more calories consumed during the day.
• Breathe—lower your stress level, whether it’s meditation, exercise, or a good book.
• Write things down—writing down what you eat is an effective weight-loss tool.