Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Nine Ways to Lose Pounds in 2009

By Dorthy Weatherbush

Everybody hates the word 'diet'. It makes you think of pain and misery. It is definitely hard to keep your will power to stay on a diet during the holidays.

But it isn't all terrible. There are many ways to quickly lose unwanted weight without starving yourself and it really is quite easy - as long as you know how to do it. Start the New Year off right with great weight loss results by following these easy tips.

Here are the top nine ways to lose pounds in 2009.

1. Water Most people do not drink enough water on a daily basis, but it is honestly the best way nature gives us to clean out our bodies and helps us stay slim at the same time. Drinking enough water is so easy anybody can do it. Simply drink a glass of water before every meal and every snack and you will be refreshed and you will feel fuller, too full to over eat or reach for sweets.

2. Fiber Fiber gives another opportunity to help you lose weight and make you feel full at the same time. By adding fiber to your diet, you can actually reduce and get rid of awful hunger pangs. Foods like fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and beans will increase your intake of fiber, making you feel full faster and lose weight faster too!

3. Snacks Staying slim does not require starving yourself. You should definitely snack throughout the day in between meals. Your metabolism will increase by snacking, helping your weight loss. Be careful however of what snacks you choose to eat; remember they should be healthy snacks. It's definitely okay to eat nuts, fruit, and even a snack size tub of yogurt or baked rice crispies. Moreover, just be smart about your snack choices.

4. Walk Use every chance you get to walk. Instead of taking the elevator, use the stairs. Park in the back of the store parking lot and walk. Go for a walk in your neighborhood or at a local park with your dog, or with a friend. Or if you want to stay home, turn on your stereo and walk around your house.

5. Grill it don't Fry it Stop frying your foods and try grilling them. Grilling is easy and takes less time than frying. It's also healthier and has fewer calories.

6. Side Dishes We've been trained over the years to believe that meals aren't complete without fries on the side. Replace fries with a simple salad or with some steamed vegetables.

7. Processed Foods Pre-packaged deli ham, chicken and turkey are quick and easy to have available in the fridge, but they have high levels of sodium. Sodium makes your body retain fluid and makes it harder for you to lose weight. Don't buy pre-packaged processed foods whenever possible. Opt for fresh options.

8. Keep It Lean You can eat red meat and poultry if you like, just remember to buy lean cuts. Cut off any excess fat and remove the skin from chicken before grilling. That way you keep the fat levels down.

9. Meal Replacement Meal replacement diets are simple and easy, and can help you shed pounds quickly. All you have to do is replace your lunch or dinner with a already prepared meal available through a variety of companies. You get all the nutrients you need, with the fewest calories, without having to think about it.

Follow these simple tricks and you'll be surprised with the results. - 16463

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