Eco-Friendly Weight Loss Tips

Losing weight is an admirable goal. But losing weight in a sustainable way is even better! Consider these five eco-friendly weight loss tips. It is super easy to love the environment while slimming down!

Unplug your exercise.

Sure, walking and running are great ways to lose weight. Moving your body also helps lower blood pressure, improve your mood, strengthen your heart, and slow down the rate of bone loss. But the next time you’re at the gym, take a look around. How much energy do you think those treadmills, stationary bikes, and elliptical machines use? What about the row of TVs mounted on the wall or attached to every machine?

Cancel your gym membership and take advantage of Mother Nature. Go for a walk in the park. Take your family on a weekend hiking trip. Go for a bike around town. If you live in a part of the country that isn’t conducive to outdoor exercise, you still have some eco-friendly cardo workout options. Look into purchasing a stationary bike that doesn’t use electricity. Or, if you must use the gym for part of the year, leave your car at home – walk, ride your bike, or use the bus.

Beef…it’s NOT what’s for dinner.

Did you know that agriculture accounts for more greenhouse gas emissions than all cars, trains, and planes worldwide? In fact, meat requires the most energy consumption out of any food. Land used for livestock production might feed 100 people; the same area could feed 1,000 people a vegetarian meal. In addition to being a more eco-friendly option, eating less meat is healthier too. Studies show that vegetarians are about 20% slimmer than carnivores.

Invest in a reusable water bottle.

Drinking water before a meal helps fill you up causing you to eat less. Plus, studies show that drinking plenty of water is one of the best things you can do to aid the weight loss process. It has the ability to boost your metabolism, helping your body burn calories. And drinking plenty of water while working out is a must. But buying a disposable water bottle each time you need refreshment will only add to the over-filled landfills. Instead, buy a BPA-free water bottle; you can take it with you anywhere.

Shop smart.

The clothes you wear while working out can be almost as important as the exercise you do. You need to keep safety and comfort in mind; clothes shouldn’t have loose parts that can encumber the process. Some workout clothes are specially designed to manage heat and sweat; donning these garments will help you work out more effectively and longer.

If you plan to invest in some quality workout gear, make sure it is eco-friendly. An eco-friendly manufacture limits the amount of waste during production. They also use recycled materials when possible.

Don’t rinse and repeat.

Did you know a 20 minute shower uses about 50 gallons of water?! Do your sweating exercises first thing in the morning. Then, you only have to take one shower a day (instead of taking a second shower after working out). When you do shower, make it as short as possible. Another good eco-friendly shower tip – turn your water heater down a few degrees. It won’t make a difference to your shower, but it will make a big difference on the environment.

Guest blogger Brenda Habben enjoys writing for various health sites. She recently navigated an arduous weight loss journey (aided by these people); she is proud to say that she managed to shed 35 pounds and executed green techniques whenever possible!