10 Small Steps To Cut Calories Everyday

Post written by Sherri Kruger. Follow her on Twitter.

There are so many of us who are looking to live a happier and healthier life. But if you’re anything like me, the idea of going on a diet has you a little less than enthused.

To be successful in weight loss, as with any other big change, starting small, going slow, and being consistent is the key to success.

So instead of starting another fad diet, start small with dietary changes that you can sustain, that you enjoy, and that are good for you.

Simple ways to cut calories

Here are some ways you can simply and easily cut calories from your diet each day without really noticing.

1. Coffee
If you use full cream try switching to 2%, 1% or skim milk to color your coffee. Also if you add sugar try reducing the amount you add gradually working your way down to 1/2 of what you’re adding now.

It’ll take a bit of getting used to but it’s worth it, especially if you drink a lot of coffee during the day.

2. Sandwiches
If you’re a fan of sandwiches consider making them open face, made with only one piece of bread. You can easily cut out about 100 calories by doing this.

3. Butter
Cut out butter where you can. Try low calorie sandwich spreads and margarine as alternatives.

4. Meat
Choose lean or extra lean cuts of meat. Also, did you know that a serving of meat is about the size of a deck of cards? This shocked me since it’s a far cry from what you’re typically served in a restaurant.

5. Soda
If you must have soda limit your consumption as much as possible. You can add a bit to your favorite fruit juice or try drinking flavoured sparkling water as an alternative.

6. Ice cream
I love ice cream, but there are some really great alternatives to ice cream that taste just as good. Try low fat ice cream, ice milk, frozen yogurt, or sorbet.

7. Snacks
Instead of chips, cheesies and pretzels try air-popped popcorn. Leave out the butter and add some herbs or spices for a bit of a flavor boost.

8. Eat real food
The easiest way to cut calories is to know exactly what you’re eating.

There are some really simple, healthy and tasty meals you can make with minimal ingredients and very little time. Check out these 5 ingredient, 5 minute meals for inspiration.

9. Chocolate
If you are a chocoholic, or have a sweet tooth, don’t deprive yourself. Instead of eating an entire milk chocolate bar try one square of dark chocolate.

It’s richer so you won’t want as much of it, and it also has some positive health effects.

10. Salads
Try substituting one meal each day with a salad. Don’t limit yourself to the same old salad day after day. Get creative.

Add different nuts, berries, fruit and vegetables. Add cooked chicken if you have some leftover from the night before. Lentils and couscous add great texture and a different flavor. Try different types of lettuce and give baby spinach a try if you you’re looking for an alternative to lettuce.

Experiment with dressings as well, try olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, lime juice, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt and pepper, herbs, and spices in different combinations to suit your taste.

There are numerous ways to cut calories throughout the day without really noticing. The above are 10 simple ways that I routinely use to cut calories from my own diet. I’ve successfully adopted these changes to my own eating habits and I don’t feel deprived in the least.

I’m always on the look out for more food alternative, or substitution ideas, so if you have any please share them in the comments…