This Is How You Can Cut Calorie Intake Below 1200 Without Feeling Hungry
When aiming to lose weight, sticking to a calorie limit below 1200 while keeping hunger at bay can be quite challenging. Many individuals struggle to find the right balance to restrict calorie intake without feeling famished.
Most successful weight loss stories highlight that very low-calorie diets are not sustainable. When a person drastically decreases their calorie intake, they may initially lose weight, but soon hit a plateau. The body’s metabolism slows down to adapt to the reduced calorie intake, leading to energy conservation. This can result in weight loss stalling, leaving the person feeling weak, irritable, and likely to abandon the diet. Once they return to normal eating habits, weight gain often follows.
For individuals, particularly women, consuming more than 1200 calories a day without burning them off could hinder weight loss efforts. Therefore, finding a balance where neither too little nor too much is consumed is crucial, with 1200 calories serving as a general guideline for many.
Here’s how to limit calorie intake below 1200 without starving:
1. Try Intermittent Fasting to reduce calorie intake below 1200
Intermittent fasting (IF) is an effective method to keep calories under 1200. With IF, you eat within an 8-10 hour window and fast for the rest of the time. An example could be having an early dinner and delaying breakfast until later. For breakfast, a cup of bulletproof coffee can suffice.
2. Watch your fat intake
Fats are calorie-dense, with just a tablespoon of ghee packing around 100 calories. It’s easy to surpass your daily calorie limit by consuming excess fats, such as indulging in too many nuts.
3. Limit sugary treats
Sweets can be a major source of hidden calories. A single scoop of ice cream can contain 400-500 calories, exceeding one-third of your daily limit. Similarly, traditional sweets can also be high in calories. Opt for healthier fat sources rather than indulging in sugary treats.
4. Drink water first when hungry
Often, what we interpret as hunger can actually be thirst. Try drinking a glass of water when you feel hungry and wait a bit. If you’re still hungry afterwards, then eat.
5. Include more fiber-rich foods
Fiber-rich foods help you feel full without consuming many calories. Having a glass of water after a salad can help satiate your hunger. Incorporating fiber into your meals through salads, seeds, green veggies, and whole grains like brown rice can be beneficial.
By implementing these strategies, you can easily incorporate three main meals and three snacks within a 1200-calorie limit. These simple tips are achievable for beginners. Give them a try and share your experience with us!
