Have you ever planned a specific time frame or given yourself a deadline to lose weight? Chances are, if you are a human being, the answer is yes. Of course, we are all human and go through phases of weight fluctuation depending on our food intake, energy output, or the seasons. In winter, we tend to gain a few kilograms. Our bodies were designed this way. It’s not a default but a survival mechanism to get us through the colder months—when a few extra layers can help keep us toasty. So, what’s the answer to “how to lose weight?”

If you’ve ever tried to lose weight rapidly, it can be very taxing. Of course, it’s not our recommendation, since rapid weight loss can cause a host of issues including hormone imbalance, hair loss, smelly breath, constipation, headaches, and brain fog. One of the most common complaints when losing weight is low energy and it makes total sense because often we are starving ourselves of the essential nutrients our bodies need to thrive.

This is where we come in! Our aim is help you reach your best—to realistically help you lose the few pounds that came out of nowhere and assist you in maintaining that healthy weight. When weight loss is gradual and supported, you’ll experience steady energy levels, happy bowel movements (because you aren’t starving your body of essential vitamins and minerals), and less hunger (because you’ll be eating foods that serve your body rather than those that continue to feed your fat cells).

When it comes down to how to lose weight, a gradual and supported program alongside products like Digestive Herbs, formerly Tiny Tea (which support good digestion) is the best way to keep your energy. When your digestive system is thriving, there is no room for fatigue. We tend to feel exhausted if our gut health is sub-average or we haven’t eaten properly because the act of digestion proves to be too much work.

Safe and gradual weight loss is also long lasting, as your body adjusts each step of the way to the new you. If you are finding that you are lethargic or feeling zapped of energy during your weight loss phase, we’re here with a few tips to help get you through.

1. Consider what you are eating.

Weight loss isn’t about starvation but about quality, nutrient dense foods that satisfy you. When you’re wondering how to lose weight, think quality over quantity. This is the only proven way to lose weight long term. Eat foods that are easily digested, warm, and cooked. Avoid cold and raw foods that may be too difficult for your body to digest.

2. Stay hydrated.

We often confuse hunger with dehydration. Over 75% of us don’t drink adequate fluids. By simply increasing your clear fluid intake like tea and water, you increase your metabolism by 30%, meaning you’re not only supporting digestion but your energy levels too.

3. Pump up the protein.

Protein is slow releasing, which means it continues to feed us energy as it is assimilated. Protein is key in satisfying hunger too. Make sure it is included with every meal.

Simple tips like those above can really help take you from tired and sluggish to thriving while you lose weight. When you have more energy, you’ll be able to exercise and do the things you love, as well as recover more quickly. If you want to know how to lose weight, be sure that you are nourishing your body well and it will absolutely thank you for it!

Written by Dr. Nat Kringoudis TCM.