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Diet & Nutrition

2011-12-27 14:23:25

Weight loss in the New Year

Q: It’s time for me to address the fact that I am overweight and need of getting in shape. Even though I do not want to sabotage myself by making a “New Year Resolution”, I am going to make weight loss my 2012 goal. I want to leverage everything possible, and healthy. Do you have any tips on safe ways to help me reach my goal?

A: This is the time of year many of us resolve to live healthier lives. One of the biggest saboteurs of weight loss—choosing radical diets that do not fit our lifestyle. You do not have to live on a diet that has you eating nothing but celery and tomatoes to enjoy weight loss and improved health. The best course of action is implementing many small changes as you go along, making every day a better day. Plan for a few set backs, but do not let them completely derail your efforts. First, try the “eat this, not that approach.” No matter what you are thinking about eating, switch it out for a comparable but healthier choice. Opt for whole grain products rather than refined. If you must indulge in something calorie rich, make it a side, rather than the main part of your meal. For example, enjoy a big fresh salad and 1/4 of a hamburger. Snacking is another place many of us get in to trouble. Companies spend a lot of money making sugar and salt filled snacks alluring because at cost per ounce, they are in most cases, huge money makers. Remember what those snacks cost you in the price of your health and true enjoyment in life, the reach for a health and productive alternative. Protein snack pack a hunger busting punch, and because protein takes more energy to process, you are burning calories while you eat! Finally, add more activity. Take the stairs, park further, walk or bike to local destinations—every bit of physical activity you add will help you reach your goal. Wishing you the best on your journey!