Health

The Strangest Weight Loss Tips People Swear By

14. A Mother’s Advice Compysaur says, “When I was younger (like, ten years old), my mom used to constantly talk about how the real way to… Trista - September 28, 2021

We’ve all tried some sort of diet in our lives – whether it was just cutting out soda, sweets, or trying a full-blown diet. Dieting is safe if you follow the guidelines for your chosen dieting track. However, there are some dieting tips out there that just don’t make sense. These dieting tips can be dangerous in some cases. If you’d like to try a diet, speak with your physician to choose the best one for your body type, health, and weight loss goals. The safest diets will have a good balance of every type of food necessary for a stable diet.

Some people out there try the craziest dieting tips, some of which are extremely dangerous or don’t have any health benefits. As an example, did you hear that eating the only grapefruit will help you lose weight? It seems silly, right? We’ve scoured the internet to find the strangest weight loss tips people swear by to help you weed out the dieting tips that don’t work. You won’t believe what some of these people have tried to lose weight. Keep reading to learn 25 of the craziest and strangest dieting tips that people believe work. You’ll be surprised by some of them!

29. Cabbage Soup Diet

Have you ever tried cabbage soup? How would you like to eat nothing but that? AlvinsHOTJuiceBox recounts one diet trick that left more than a bad taste in his mouth. “My wife had us try this cabbage soup diet thing years ago. She made a GIANT pot of this rancid-tasting cabbage soup. It was like eating a bowl of wet hot farts. That you had to eat for lunch and dinner.” The combination of non-appetizing food with the repetition for almost every meal was not the only thing that could be surprising. The other caveat in this diet is that they could drink all of the skim milk that they wanted. More foods were then introduced each day.

Some other Reddit users have stated that they have had some successful results when this diet is used as a short-term lifestyle choice for weight loss. This result is likely due because people on this diet are severely cutting their caloric intake. The diet is intended to last no longer than seven days. If you can stomach the soup and have the discipline, it could be something to look into. However, you still have to supply your body with other healthy options from the food pyramid, so don’t make this a permanent thing.

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28. Time for Tea

Did you ever stop and think that maybe you are just thirsty instead of hungry? Reddit user TineCiel has a good tip for determining whether it is hunger or boredom when the case of the midday or midnight munchies strikes. “When I feel hungry and know it’s boredom or emotional, I make a huge pot of tea or herbal tea. It takes a while to drink it all and usually takes my mind off things.” Tea not only has plenty of health benefits, but it can also be a low-calorie way to hydrate when you take out the sweeteners. Making tea also takes the focus off what may be causing your mind to wander.

It can also be an effective way to curb previous lousy eating habits. TineCiel said that because it takes time to brew the beverage and complete other tasks, the time spent can be better spent when a quick and high caloric snack would have been the case. “Particularly effective when I get home from work, and it’s too early for dinner or before bed, both my weak times in terms of snacking. At night, taking a shower and brushing my teeth and flossing help.” Having something to drink can fill you up just like snacking will. Instead of slurping down a slushie or calorie-filled soda, try something healthy like tea. Warm milk can also do the trick to help you rest easy.

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27. Seasoning Sabotage

Going out to eat can be a real treat, but there is no actual prize for being a clean plate club member. The user refrigerator_critic has a helpful tip to keep honest about the amount eaten at a restaurant. “When I am satisfied at a restaurant, I cover my meal in so much salt and sugar it becomes completely unappetizing. This prevents me from picking and overeating,” said a deleted Reddit user said. The sabotage makes the food less appetizing. Furthermore, you are less likely to eat it while waiting for the staff to clear the food from the table.

Another user mentioned that she would mix the food to avoid the temptation of munching more. The mindset behind these tactics is to recognize when you have eaten enough and trick yourself into not eating more than what you want to. You could also ask for a to-go sack early on in the meal and pack away the extra food before you even start eating. You are the one who is in control of what you eat, and you will be glad that you had the willpower to keep your calorie intake within manageable constraints.

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26. Superfood Spinach

The adage about an apple a day may keep the doctor away, but a cup of some green stuff can go a long way in keeping the pounds off. Nutritionists swear that Popeye’s favorite go-to snack packs a powerful punch all its own. Spinach can speed up weight loss efforts because it actually takes more calories to burn than it does to consume. One cup of spinach contains only seven calories. The leafy greens also contain insoluble fiber that has been scientifically proven to keep you fuller longer. You will be less likely to snack in between meals if you put some spinach in your meal plan!

Spinach is entirely versatile as it can also be added to other foods such as smoothies, salads, and sandwiches to make the meal more nutritious. User Duncanconstruction likes to add spinach to tuna sandwiches because, as he says, “It adds a lot of mass to a meal with virtually no extra calories and tastes good too.” What a great combination that is sure to keep you more satisfied until the next meal. You can also use it to sneak into some of your meals when you need the extra nutrition.

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25. Avocados and Other Healthy Fats

Sure, these green things are all the rage nowadays! But you don’t want to be a typical person who likes pumpkin spice and Target with avocados added to that list. Don’t worry; there is a reason they are so popular. (And just to be clear, we have nothing against pumpkins, its spices, or any retailers like Target.) Avocados are technically fruit, but they are nutritionally compared to be a source of fat. Putting more fat into a diet may not sound like a great way to reduce it, but these green fruits are more than just that. Avocados are packed full of nutrients, including potassium and vitamins C, K, and E. They are also responsible for decreasing levels of bad cholesterol, or LDL cholesterol.

In addition to the health benefits, avocados can help you feel fuller longer. They can be an excellent substitute for high-calorie sauces like mayonnaise. One study found that individuals who ate half an avocado with their meal at lunch reported a decreased desire to eat up to five hours afterward, even past the point of snacking two to three hours. That is a pretty impressive set of properties for appetite control and weight loss. Not bad for a tiny change to your lunch.

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24. Begin the Day with Protein

Protein is one of the most critical macronutrients because it is involved in nearly all of your body’s functions and processes. It is also vital in building muscle during exercise and physical activity. Breakfast is considered the most essential part of the day, and for good reason. Protein can help you feel fuller longer and get you to your lunch period without wanting to visit the nearby vending machine. Eggs are one food that has a ton of protein.

One deleted Reddit user says, “I was recently thinking about being consistent with food groups to help me really pin down my food. Breakfast is going to turn into ‘protein and fruit,’ and morning snack will be ‘something with veggies.’ The afternoon snack will now be ‘fruit’ as well.” Choosing lean proteins in your meals, especially for breakfast, can keep you on the right track to obtaining your weight loss goals. And no, you don’t have to cut your toast into heart shapes. Good luck getting an egg to form that way, unless you have a handy frame. Just eating protein, paired with some fruit, in the morning will make all the difference for your weight loss goals.

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23. Cut Out Sugary Drinks

Several people who have seen success in weight reduction have said they have followed a simple rule: don’t drink your calories. So much sugar is used in soda, juice, and other sugary drinks, and that high-calorie intake is not meant to make you feel full and satisfied. Substituting the big beverages for water, unsweetened tea, or black coffee can keep you hydrated and not take in any calories. So say goodbye to pop, soda, coke — whatever you call it! And opt for something a little healthier.

Moderation is always the key, so if you cannot quit the sweet stuff completely, then compromise. Reddit user FlameFrenzy found a happy medium and used the drinks as a reward. “I cut out soda completely and now only have it as a weekend treat (and only one can of soda). I don’t like how diet soda tastes, so this cut out a lot of calories for me as well as a lot of sugar.” Figuring out what works for you is part of the process, and if you need the extra motivation, a limited amount could help you get over the hurdle.

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22. Meal Prepping Makes All the Difference

Preparing your meals puts you in control of what you are going to eat throughout the week. Many people have said this tactic has helped them lose weight. The user totspur1982 says, “You would be surprised how much control you give yourself over your calories when you plan ahead. It also saves a lot of time and money.” Not only is it easy on the wallet, but I can also feel empowering. Reasonabletrap says, “I prep meals. Just being around the food but not eating it at the moment gives me power over it. So I pack that crap tediously and arrange it to make it cute or have designs. I go out of my way to make it presentable because it’s actually relaxing when I prep food.”

Once you have a method down for your meals, you can have the wiggle room to plan bigger meals later and still stay on track. Another user says, “if I have a small lunch and breakfast, I can have a HUGE dinner and dessert (which I would have even if I had a huge lunch and breakfast) and remain under my calorie intake for the day. I don’t really notice cravings at work, so it works perfectly because as soon as my cravings start at home, I can have my feast to fill me up for the night, so I don’t go grazing before bed.”

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21. Mindful Eating Is Essential for a Healthy Lifestyle

Have you ever heard of mindful eating? The concept of practicing mindful eating can help individuals lose weight by changing their eating behaviors and reducing stress. Mindful eating requires you to be an inclusive eater who focuses on the food in front of them. Too much time is spent multitasking during mealtime. Turning off the TV, putting down the phone, and reducing the distractions can help you read your body’s signals about when you are full. It can make a huge difference that you didn’t even notice before.

Mindful eating also has you eat slowly, putting down the fork in between bites and chewing food well. Each meal should be at least 20 minutes. When you are encouraged to slow down and pay attention to the food in front of you. You can take the time to savor, explore and appreciate each bite. Once you feel your cues to stop eating, you will understand and keep from overeating. It may take some practice, but you may be able to perfect the process. Give mindful eating a try and you might find the pounds falling off faster than you anticipated.

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20. Calorie Counting Woes

DietCokeYummie says, “People are afraid of calorie counting, for whatever reason. I went to a family gathering on Saturday where my aunt-by-marriage’s parents were there. So, not my grandparents or family. But people I’ve met a few times. When lunch was finished cooking, we all lined up and made plates and went to eat. Some people sat indoors in various rooms, but I ate outside with my brother. When aunt’s mother came outside, I had finished my plate and thrown it away already. The first thing she said when she stepped outside was, “Did you eat a plate?!” I told her, oh yes, thank you. And it was like she didn’t believe me. “Well, I sure didn’t see you with food.” Like, lady, why would I lie? But I’m petite, so I must not eat.”

“My mom is very aware of CICO. We started this together last year. But I guess she didn’t stick to it because she has gained weight in the past year. On the way home from the family gathering, she starts telling me she used to count calories, but the “only thing that works for [me] is cutting out carbs and sugar.” And I’m like, well yeah, that is one method of CICO if you prefer it, but you CAN lose weight without cutting out those things if you try. People will create any narrative to justify their eating/weight. Forget the evidence standing right in front of them.”

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19. An Ill-Informed Coworker

Reddit user StephanieQ312 says, “I was once told that Watermelons are going to cause me diabetes and liver failure. The person who started this was drinking soda. I have no idea where they got this information. This was a previous coworker who might have been insane. I didn’t ask for any diet advice either. It was just thrown at me as I ate a serving-size watermelon slice at lunch. The conversation was one-sided of her talking to me about this for at least 5 minutes. It was already an awful job, so she managed to ruin my only enjoyment of the day.”

This is one of those silly tips. Watermelons are safe to eat. They are rich in amino acids that help to circulate blood through the body. Also rich in lycopene, watermelons are great for heart health. This Reddit user was given bad advice when she didn’t ask for it. All she was trying to do was enjoy her lunch peacefully when a coworker decided to chime in. People have their ideas on foods and dieting choices, and it’s sometimes difficult to convince them otherwise. Keep reading for more strange dieting tips people swear by. You won’t believe what some of these people think.

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18. Unwanted Advice

Eichunyan says, “Ugh, the eating disorder nonsense….my mom has expressed at least five times that I’ll get an eating disorder in the last six months. I know it’s her way of showing concern, but it doesn’t show support when you’re constantly correlating my eating habits [which are perfectly healthy and normal] with the potential for being mentally ill. I’ve been mentally ill before [Depression], which doesn’t make it any easier with her constantly barraging me ED concerns. And, that whole ‘eating more’ thing drives me crazy. I took ONE maintenance day a couple of weeks back because I was sick and hungry, and it helped.”

“My mom suggested I should have two maintenance days a week to “stay healthy.” I’m perfectly healthy now! I’m so much healthier than I was last year!” If you or anyone you know does have an eating disorder, there is help available. Don’t feel like you have to go through it alone. It sounds like this Reddit user doesn’t appreciate her mom’s advice on her dieting choices. It may be a good idea for her to consult her physician if her mom feels it’s dangerous. A well-rounded diet helps you stay safe and healthy. Following a dieting plan provided by your doctor will ensure you’re getting all of the nutrients necessary to stay healthy.

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17. Water Works!

Greeneyedwench tells a college story. They say, “When I was in college, the other women in my dorm thought the water was sorcery. It didn’t matter what you ate, what you drank, or what you smoked, just drink a million tons of water, and you’ll never get fat or sick. Sure, it’s good for you, but it’s not magic.” Water is good for you, but it can also cause problems if you drink too much. Water Intoxication can occur when you drink too much water. Yes, it is possible to drink too much! Many people go to the hospital every year for water intoxication.

Water intoxication can cause deadly side effects. The sodium levels in your body are meant to stay within a specific range, but water intoxication can disrupt sodium levels, causing a disturbance in brain functions. Drinking too much can disrupt electrolyte levels in the body as well. Symptoms of water intoxication include nausea, confusion, vomiting, coma, and seizures. It’s even possible to die from drinking too much water. If you drink a lot of water, be sure to stay within the safe range of 3.7 liters for men and 2.7 liters for women.

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16. Keeping Lunch Simple

Cenosillicaphobiac explains how he keeps the weight off. He says, “People at work think I’m weird because I eat the same thing for lunch. Every. Single. Day. It’s gotten even more routine since Costco stopped selling different kinds of canned meat (roast beef, pulled pork, turkey) and now carries only chicken. They also get frustrated when I don’t eat any of their donuts or bagels or whatever else they bring in. I mean, it’s nothing personal folks, it just sabotages me. Doing these two things (and skipping breakfast) gives me the leeway to be pretty decadent at night and still lose weight at a steady clip, so yeah, if “weird” keeps me on track, I’ll be weird.”

This Reddit user eats the same meal for lunch every day to be able to splurge at night. It seems like it works for him, but it’s not for everyone. I, for one, would get extremely bored eating the same thing for lunch every single day. As long as he’s eating a balanced diet, I suppose it’s safe to do this. His coworkers could be a little more supportive by not offering him sweets or other things that could throw him off track. When someone is dieting, it’s best to let them do their own thing unless you believe it’s not safe.

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15. Candy Cane Tea

Toxik0n explains how she maintains her weight. She says, “I’m currently Drinking all different kinds of tea. My current favorite is a candy-cane black tea with almond milk and a packet of stevia. Another staple – Fiber One bars. They scratch that dessert itch perfectly for only 90 calories. I also delay my first meal as late as possible (aka intermittent fasting). I find that my hunger levels are the same regardless of if I ate breakfast or not, so I try not to start eating until 2-3 PM. Also, Meal-prepping helps me stay on track. Preparing a week’s worth of food on Sundays so I don’t need to worry about cooking for six days.”

“It makes life much easier when I want something quick to eat after work. I enjoy going for a walk immediately after eating dinner, so I don’t linger around the kitchen and keep eating. Walking gives me time to digest and let that satiety cue kick in.” It sounds like this Reddit user has everything figured out to maintain her weight. While this plan may not work for everyone, it seems to be doing the trick for her. Tea is a healthy option to get caffeine without drinking soda, and the Fiber One bars are low in calories and loaded with the fiver necessary for your body.

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14. A Mother’s Advice

Compysaur says, “When I was younger (like, ten years old), my mom used to constantly talk about how the real way to lose weight was to eat more frequent meals. Because it “keeps your metabolism going” and “makes you feel less hungry” and whatnot. The weird thing is, she never actually tried doing this even though she wanted to lose weight, but she would talk about it all the time and how it’s so counterintuitive, but it does work because apparently, some friend heard it from a doctor once. I just argued with her last night because she called and told me that she’s finally admitting she needs to lose weight, and she’s going to do it. Her plan: exercise for 30 mins a day. I told her she wouldn’t lose weight without calorie counting and that 30 mins of exercise a day will burn a very modest amount of calories that she could eat back with a sandwich.”

“I also told her I’ve been losing a consistent 1.5 lbs a week for the past six weeks since I started calorie counting (although I didn’t mention the plateau I’ve been experiencing for FOUR DAYS, argh). She brushed off everything I said and said that exercise would make her more healthy too, so that’s what she’s going to do. In the past, whenever my mom has decided to lose weight, she has “gone off sugar.” She quits eating anything with sugar in it (but for some reason is allowed honey and maple syrup). It usually helps her lose about 20 lbs but then as soon as she starts eating sugar again it all comes back.”

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13. The Cauliflower Diet

Sirenssong explains how she utilizes frozen vegetables to slim down. She says, “My freezer is now full of frozen veggies – Especially cauliflower. I adore rice and pasta and used to snack on “Cheesy Rice.” Now, if I’m jonesing hard, I make “Cheesy Cauliflower” and undercook it, so it’s crunchy, take a half bag (or whole. 1 huge bag is 100 calories) of it, 10-20 grams of Parmesan, and a bit of salt. It’s Just as good. I also put marinara on it. And chili, curry, marinara… I ran out last week, and first thing in the morning, I was AHH. So, I need cauliflower for today.”

“Also, I spent three days testing making the perfect soft-boiled egg. I steam them. I use a half-inch of water, bring it to boil, add eggs, and put on a lid for 5 minutes, 30 seconds. Now I can have perfect eggs in 7 minutes anytime I want. It’s a Lifesaver.” While eating plenty of fruits and vegetables is good for you, it’s important to include protein as well. This Reddit user swears by eating cauliflower and cooking it in a variety of ways for her meals. I hope she’s eating more than just cauliflower and eggs. I’m sure she’d like more variety in her diet.

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12. Useful Containers

A deleted Reddit user explains how containers help them stay on track. They say, “I have three mini plastic cups I put my snacks in. I probably wouldn’t know how to portion without them. My grandpa brought them home from an airplane. I think they originally contained some dessert. They’re cute and so, so useful! I use them every day. On a similar note, I keep my chocolate in a glass that originally had mustard – it’s got waffle-like decorative squares on its sides and a waterproof cap. Why does this help? I don’t know, but I have not pulled out more than two pieces from it at a time.

“So, it’s gotta be doing something, right? I wish the can of Pringles had the same effect. Keep in mind I used to finish a chocolate bar the day I opened it. I’m now looking out for more unexpected cute containers. Could I just use a cup or jar for the same purpose? Yes… But it’s not the same.” This Reddit user believes cute containers for their food helps to curb hunger and snacking. While this isn’t a diet, the tip could be useful to some. Smaller containers equal less snacking. I can see where they are trying to go with this.

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11. Keto-Friendly

TechniChara shares her story. She says, “It’s funny what a diet will allow. Coffee, for instance. My father and I are pretty much the only coffee drinkers. He drinks his coffee with 1% milk. When he offered, I told him I couldn’t have that (not keto-friendly)…as I proceeded to pour two tbs of heavy whipping cream (keto-friendly) into my coffee. Oatmeal with fruit is off the table, but non-sugared sausage/bacon and eggs? Throw in some avocado and whole milk cheese, and you got yourself an awesome keto breakfast. I have to admit. Even I was baffled by the restrictions and allowances on this diet.”

“It has to be done to the letter, though. My parents were skeptical it would work, but they’re coming around to it as they see my shrink.” The keto diet is a popular dieting choice for many people. It does provide everything you need for a balanced diet but also cuts out some interesting foods. It isn’t for everyone. If you plan to try the keto diet, please do your research first because it’s easy to go off track with all of the restrictions on the keto diet. Keep reading for a strange story about cutting out carbohydrates. You won’t believe what this person was told.

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10. It’s Okay If This Is Not For You

Flibbitygibbety says, “That I have to cut out carbs to lose weight. Honestly, I’m not against people finding a way of eating that works for them, and if keto helps someone, then that’s brilliant! But if I had to cut out pasta and bread to lose weight, I doubt I would. A lot of my favorite foods involve one of the two. People who are slim and healthy and not losing weight are telling me I can’t lose weight because I’m not cutting out carbs. I don’t want to, and I won’t, and I don’t want you to try to convert me to this any more than your religion or something.”

“Also that I have to start going to the gym to lose weight. First of all, I’m already 30% of the way there. Second, again, it’s GREAT if you enjoy the gym and it makes you feel pumped and accomplished. It doesn’t do the same for me, so I’m not going to do it. Thanks, but no thanks, and please stop telling me I HAVE to do this or that. I HAVE to eat less, that’s it. You do what works for you. I’ll do what works for me, and let’s just get on with our lives and stop this conversation because I want to scream, smile, and say, ‘that’s interesting but not for me.'”

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9. Gaming Works!

Potato123897 explains how he keeps the pounds off. He says, “I’ve found playing on the Xbox with my friends every night before I go to bed takes my mind off being hungry at night times (which is usually when I’d be likely to snack previously). My friend gets home from work at around midnight, so we usually all plan to get on for a couple of hours when he gets home from work. There have been a few times where I’ve been craving something badly, but just going on the Xbox for a couple of hours makes me completely forget about it.”

“Then, by the time we finish, I’m normally pretty tired and just go straight to bed.” This Reddit user utilizes an unconventional weight loss tip to keep the weight off. He claims that gaming helps him forget about snacking. I guess by playing games, he’s able to forget about snacking and do something he enjoys in the process. While this plan won’t work for everyone, it seems to be doing the job for him. If gaming helps him to maintain his weight and he’s only doing it late at night instead of all day long, every day, I don’t think he’s harming anyone.

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8. Do What Works For You

Flibbitygibbety says, “Yes, it is! Also, I love a quote I saw here: the best exercise is the one you’ll do. I have a Wii fit routine I do almost every morning, and I get on the exercise bike while watching Netflix regularly. It’s not doing much for my fat loss, but it’s making me fitter, and it’s something I can commit to. I did try getting into the gym a couple of times as “that’s how you lose weight,” but I didn’t change my diet and hated all my time there anyway, so it was something I would never be able to stick to. And that’s fine!”

“There’s not a cheap gym near where I live anyway. Also, one of those people told me they don’t eat fruit as it’s just sugar, so it’s empty carbs, so I should not eat it according to someone involved in their fitness regime. & I’m like, okay, if you have to watch your sugar intake but the fruit is also good for you and delicious, so I’m gonna eat fruit every day. Another “that’s interesting but not for me. Also, walking your dog is good for your health and your mood. Dogs are the best things!” Keep reading for more strange weight loss tips.

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7. Potatoes Are Delicious

Ishouldnotbeonreddit talks about their Atkins Diet experience. Keep reading to find out what happened to them. They say, “It’s So true. I lost 30 pounds on the Atkins diet at one time, and I didn’t like how I felt at all. But my dad, who lost weight with me (and regained it), is convinced it’s the ONLY thing one can ever do to lose weight and insists on ruining every meal we share with constant comments about how terrible and fattening carbs are. He won’t let it go. There are other diets out there to try and plenty of dieting tips that work.”

“I also get sick of people hating potatoes and harping on the need to replace potatoes in your diet to lose weight. I mean, by all means, make calorie-saving substitutions if you like them, but I like potatoes. They are very filling and a great source of potassium (which I have trouble getting enough of on 1200kcal/day). I have a baked potato with greens and a little Parmesan for lunch, like, three days a week, and miraculously, I continue losing weight! Same deal with fruit.” This Reddit user has tried a variety of diets and has their plan completely laid out.

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6. The Gym Isn’t Necessary

Amandalibre says, “The gym pushers always get me. I’ve been an athlete my whole life, so I have no qualms about working out or going to the gym or whatever, but hilariously I have been doing so way less since I’ve been losing weight. It’s not on purpose–I used to go on long runs a few times a week, and now, because of the new job, I haven’t had the time to. But whatever working out I do end up doing now gets tracked and factored into what I eat. The point is, I could easily lose this much weight without working out.”

“But still, I’ve had people that are way larger than me and not remotely fit tell me I need to have a regular gym regiment or I won’t be successful. Okay…. thanks?” This Reddit user has a problem with people who try to make her go to the gym to lose weight. It is possible to lose weight without going to the gym. You can work out at home, at the park, or just try a diet with minimal exercise. There are plenty of options out there without paying for an expensive gym membership. She says she goes for runs, and that is an excellent way to keep the pounds off.

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5. Cutting Carbs Isn’t For Everyone

A_nicki discusses how her parents respond to losing weight. Keep reading to find out what tips they suggest. “I heard about this carb-cutting idea on the weekends. My parents don’t know what to do/how to respond because I’m not on a diet like they’re used to – they don’t get the eat less, move more plan. Plus, I do still have food sensitivities [gluten and lactose]. While out on a walk with Dad, he mentions how great I must feel eating better and mentions he needs to cut carbs again [pasta and potatoes] to get healthy. I kept my mouth shut.”

“He was also shocked because I ate pizza before visiting them on Thursday [trying to avoid whatever they planned for dinner] – “oh, but the calories!” Yes, but I planned my day out and had half a frozen pizza [400 calories total] instead of a grease-coated one from Pizza Pizza [300-400 calories per slice].” Counting calories and carbohydrates isn’t for everyone. You should always choose a diet that works for you by speaking with your physician. Your doctor can help you choose one that works best with your body type and exercise regimen. Keep reading for more strange weight loss tips people swear by!

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4. Choosing The Best Diet For You

TechniChara says, “I’m currently on keto, and I found out quickly that there are some, like those on the keto subreddit, that treat it more like a lifestyle, the only correct lifestyle, and any deviation is not accepted. It’s not too different from hardcore vegans. Diets work differently for each person – there are so many different diet and exercise combos, and all of them will work if done right, so all you need to do is figure out which one is right for you. It’s so silly to pigeonhole weight loss and health into one healthy diet. Doctors recommend “diet and exercise” – they didn’t say which diet!”

“And of course, exercise comes in many forms. I’ve been rotating between calisthenics and gardening (walks are regular). Our yard is no grandma’s flower garden. There are rocks, the soil is the heavy, dense Texas clay, and then you add in that St.Augustine grass, ugh. Tilling, weeding, and digging out rocks in even a small section is hours of hard work! My arms and upper chest felt like I did a full upper body workout. Lots more yard and garden projects shortly, including digging out a deep hole to plant a lemon tree. Yay, more rocks and clay.”

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3. No Forbidden Foods

Drackir has a specific plan in place. “I have a few things in the freezer that I can just shove in the oven and have dinner in fifteen to twenty minutes, so if I can’t be bothered cooking, I won’t go and get take out: chicken strips, frozen veggies, leftover curry, or stew. As long as I know the calories, it just takes a real load off. This helped as one of my big snacking times was between realizing I wanted dinner and dinner to be ready. I don’t use the term “I can’t eat that” or “I’d love to, but I can’t” and instead say “I’m not eating that now.”

“It oddly does make a difference. People also seem to be less pushy about getting you to eat something with a conditioning phrase. Similarly, I don’t have any forbidden foods (except chocolate, and that’s only forbidden in the house); I just have choices to make. I could have a smaller dinner and then some ice cream, or more veggies, more chicken, and some gravy. Choices. I buy a lot more stuff that has individual serves in it. I’ve had times that I have just slowly eaten an entire bag of chips, so having smaller packs has helped a lot.”

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2. It’s Not The Most Important Meal Of The Day

DietCokeYummie is tired of hearing about breakfast. Keep reading to hear why. “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” I get this anytime someone finds out I don’t eat until ~1 PM. The last time it was said to me, it was by a friend who is the heaviest she’s ever been and is dying to lose weight (but yet to do anything about it). She said this to me during breakfast in a restaurant where I watched her consume a Chicken and Waffles dish that was two huge homemade waffles, five fried chicken tenders, a heavy cream sauce, and a side of fried potato wedges.”

“I’m like – how are you gonna sit here and tell me breakfast is the most important meal of the day and not acknowledge that you’re eating a 1000+ calorie breakfast? I have to be delicate, though. Before I lost this weight, I wasn’t “BIG” in most people’s definition. I’m 4’9″, and I was 115lbs. While it was too big for my preferences on my frame (not pretty in a swimsuit, yikes), it wasn’t obese. And most people see me clothed. So in many of my IRL friends’ eyes, I “have always been small.” They don’t want weight loss advice from me even though I’ve done phenomenally at losing my extra weight this past year, because to them, what do I know?”

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1. Snacking and Sizes Of Meals Matters

Fat_Sad_ says, “My family always tells me that I should have a big breakfast and have “snack size” lunch and dinner. When I ask what I should be eating (for stuff and giggles, since I know they have no idea how many calories are in anything), the common response is “oh, you know, a balanced breakfast- three pancakes, two eggs, some bacon or sausage, cereal… a glass of milk. Maybe some juice.” Just with that, it’s almost my entire day’s calories. As for “snack size,” apparently a turkey and cheddar sandwich, apple, and glass of milk is “snack size.”

“A grilled chicken breast and green salad with vinaigrette is also “snack size.” If I ate all of that, I would gain weight. Not to mention I’m diabetic, and that breakfast would kill my blood sugar, and when my blood sugar goes up, I get lonely and feel like I need a nap. When I tell people what I eat now, they always tell me I’m not eating enough. I just tell them that if I ate “enough,” I would still be gaining weight instead of losing it.” People need to realize that one dieting plan doesn’t work for everyone. It all depends on your body type, metabolism, and the amount of time you spend exercising.

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