The Best Ways to Lose Weight Fast

Whether you’re looking to drop a dress size or want to get rid of belly fat, there are several hallmarks to a healthy and successful weight loss program. Make sure you consider these effective strategies on your journey to a newly slimmer and stronger you and always speak to your doctor before changing your diet or fitness routine.

Drink Lots of Water
Hydration is key to weight loss success because it keeps your metabolism regulated and your body functioning at its prime. It’s especially crucial to re-hydrate every morning after a good night’s rest, so you can replenish the water you’ve lost while asleep and jumpstart your digestion for the rest of the day. For an extra boost in antioxidants and flavor, start your day with a cup of hot lemon water or oolong tea.

More: 9 Creative Ways to Drink More Water

Eat Clean Foods
If you want to slim down quickly, clean eating is the way to go. When you eat more foods that are minimally processed, including whole fruits and vegetables, you’ll be getting the quality calories you need to stay energized and satiated. Balance out your diet with lean protein and whole grains and you’ll have a varied meal plan that includes nutrients such as fiber and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), all essential for a healthy lifestyle.

More: What Is Clean Eating?

Exercise Strategically
In addition to watching what you eat, you need to stay active to shed pounds. A regular exercise routine can improve metabolism, encouraging your body to burn extra calories. High-intensity interval training or HIIT, is one of the most efficient and time-saving workouts you can do. You’ll exercise at a fast pace for a shortened time period, usually between 30-60 seconds, and then take a 10-15 second recovery break before repeating with different strength and resistance moves.

Go Walking
Walking when the weather's nice is a super-easy way to keep fit, says Diane Virginias, a certified nursing assistant from New York. "I enjoy the seasons," she says, adding that even when she's short on time she'll go out for a few minutes. "Even a five minute walk is a five minute walk."