6 Psychological tricks that can help you to lose weight

Losing weight can be challenging, especially if you don't have the right mindset to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Thankfully, a recent Quora thread lists helpful advice for people who want to train their minds to help them lose weight in the long-term, rather than wasting energy on quick, short-term fixes. Here are a few of what I think are six of the best.

1. Revisit what you already know about shedding weight

Quora user Wilfredo Thomas argues that understanding weight loss in the form of energy balance is the first key to achieving one's ideal body."Energy balance is the scientific way of saying calories in versus calories out," he writes. "Your body needs a certain amount of calories to maintain its current body weight."

Once you understand energy balance, you might feel less tempted to eat more than you really need.

2. Veer away from opaque food containers - if you can't see what's inside, you don't want to know what it's doing to your body

Neil O'Nova, author of the book 7-Minute Skinny Jeans, advises against eating out of food containers, boxes, and bags that aren't clear. "Our brains are highly visual. We take visual cues as to how much food we've eaten to help us know when we should stop," O'Nova writes. "But when you can't see how much food you've had, you never get that visual feedback and you end up eating way too much."

Measuring servings and pouring them into a small bowl or onto a napkin will stop you from eating more than you planned.

3. You don't have to be full to feel full

O'Nova advises choosing vegetables such as carrots and celery over sugary treats when you're having a snack craving. Not only do they have fewer calories; they are also fibrous and can make you feel full faster. Many celebrities wholeheartedly believe in drinking hot water and lemon for the same purpose.

4. Understand what causes obesity

Thomas points to a scientific study published online by the US National Library of Medicine, which found that "promoting the notion of genes as a cause for obesity may increase genetically deterministic beliefs and decrease motivation to engage in healthy lifestyle behaviors."

Thomas concludes that people who believe that obesity is caused by unhealthy habits are likely to become proactive and re-think their actions.

5. Be kinder to yourself, don't set insane goals

Pharmacist and health enthusiast Noor Ullah Jan said: "To get out from under old propensities, you have to see yourself in a positive light." "Envision your future self, six months to a year not far off, and consider how great you'll look and feel," he writes.

6. Lean on a friend

Getting yourself to the gym is no easy feat, especially when you're going alone. However, research says that including an "exercise buddy" can be instrumental for weight loss results.

The idea is simple: change your outlook and you will almost definitely see changes in your body. Even a slight one can make massive long-term changes. Don't give up too soon and you'll be grateful for it.