Want to lose weight? These 7 things will help jump-start the process

The older you get, the harder it is to shed those unwanted pounds. If you are trying to lose weight, the first few hours of the day may hold the most promise for success. Checking off some “diet to-dos” by noon may be the best way to see results.

Women’s Health magazine recently shared these seven things you can do before noon to see a change when you step on the scale:

1. Sleep in a little: Feeling rested and energetic can keep your diet on course. Drowsiness can lead to unwanted eating, and consistently lacking sleep can also affect your metabolism.
2. Soak up some sun: Brighten your mood first thing in the morning by letting the light in. Researchers claim daily doses of sunshine get the metabolism moving. “Sunshine and fresh air are important for feeling good,” says Dr. Bill Rhoades, a geriatric physician at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, Ill.  “If you are energized and have a positive attitude, you are more likely to stay focused on a diet.”
3. Eat protein: Eating a good breakfast of protein helps you resist junk food cravings for the rest of the day. “We should all be eating a healthy breakfast with proteins like egg whites and whole grain toast or Greek yogurt,” says Dr. Rhoades. “It helps fill you up, and you’re less likely to be hungry half-way through the morning and cheat.”
4. Drink with breakfast: Water, water and more water helps you hydrate and gets rid of bloat.
5. Pack some snacks: When dieting, it is best to pack your own lunch. But, if that’s not possible, at least pack a few healthy, low calorie snacks. Snacking on junk food can throw you well off course.
6. Work in some sweat: Exercising in the morning helps boost your metabolism and reduce cravings. Even 10 minutes of exercise gets your blood flowing. “I am a big proponent of exercise,” adds Dr. Rhoades. “A morning exercise routine is one of the best things you can do to jump start weight loss.”
7. Walk part of the way to work: Try parking several blocks away from your workplace and walk it. It’s another great way to burn off a few unwanted calories.