1. Don't stop moving

Exercise. You knew this one was coming. So many of us hope to lose weight without exercise, but regardless of what you hear, it is impossible! Remember, food is a source of energy for us, and when we eat, we have energy that needs to be released. If we don't release that energy (through physical activity), then it will store itself in our bodies in the form of fat. 

While you may not be able to make it to the gym each day (or watch a yoga video on YouTube), there are still things you can do to stay moving, such as going on walks. Regardless, exercise is essential to weight loss, so find the way that's best for you, while still pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. 

2. Protein for breakfast

Within 30 minutes of waking up, eat protein! Eating protein in the morning helps speed up your metabolism and give you the energy you need to start off your day. If you don't eat properly, your body will jump into survival mode, which slows your metabolism, and, in turn, makes it harder to lose weight. 

Eggs, turkey bacon, nuts, and other lean proteins are recommended alongside other healthy foods, such as berries, bananas, and oranges. Avoid processed sugars and too much dairy in the morning. A balanced breakfast will make for a balanced day. 

3. Vegetables for dinner

Eating vegetables at the end of the day ensures that when you go to bed, your body doesn't have to worry about digesting super fatty or heavy foods. A good rule of thumb for your dinner proportions is 2/3 vegetable, 1/3 lean meat or protein. A common dinner option in my home is chicken with steamed broccoli or asparagus. Find a good combination that you like, and hurry to the grocery store to prepare your dinner for tomorrow! Avoid eating heavily processed and fatty foods at dinner time. 

4. Use essential oils

Essential oils are a fantastic support to your weight loss efforts. In fact, many essential oils contain naturally occurring compounds that support a healthy metabolism. Grapefruit essential oil is one of these. Support your metabolism at home or on-the-go by adding one to two drops of Grapefruit oil to your water. This essential oil addition to your drinks will also give your water a flavor-filled and vitalizing boost.

Another great essential oil protocol for weight loss is the use of clove and lemongrass. Taking two to three drops of clove and two to three drops of lemongrass essential oils in a capsule before bed will help to support thyroid health and cleanse your body of toxins. This will help kick your metabolism into shape.

5. Get your vitamins

In today's world, it's sometimes hard to know if you're getting all the right nutrients from your foods. While eating healthy is the best way to give our body those nutrients, using the right supplement can help "supplement" what you're not getting from your food. DoTERRA's Lifelong Vitality Pack (LLV) is the perfect addition to to your weight loss kit, as it is full of essential nutrients, metabolism benefits, and powerful antioxidants designed to help promote energy, health, and lifelong vitality. 

While many of us seek that ideal body size, it's important to remember that what is REALLY ideal is taking care of our bodies, and taking care of your body is always the best way to lose weight. Eating healthy, exercising, and utilizing other self-care methods, such as essential oils, will help your body will be fit and prepared to support you in all that you desire to accomplish!

With love, 

Rebecca Hintze