Sunday, January 18, 2009

Diet Plan For Weight Loss

By Travis Small

First rule: pay attention! Lose weight by first paying attention to the foods you eat eliminating unnecessary fats and sugary foods. Pay attention to the amount of food you eat. Keep your taste buds healthy eating delicious but intelligent choices.

Most easy-to-use weight loss programs use a balanced and flexible diet. Lay the groundwork to, however, first by focusing on losing the first 10 pounds and then shoot for the next 10 pounds.

Most weight loss programs insist you keep track of every bit of food you eat or drink. Start by writing down everything you eat. No need to write down the calorie count but start not putting margarine or butter on toast, vegetables and sandwiches. Use less oil in food as well as cooking.

If you're not currently using skim milk, reduce the level of fat content in the milk you use. For example, if you currently use two percent, use only one percent. If you insist on whole milk, try two percent. And drink tea.

You?ll need to restrict the sugar treats to three times per week maximum and include good sources of protein at meal, chicken, fish, legumes, peanut, cottage cheese, eggs or yogurt. Eat at least one meatless lunch and dinner each week to reduce fat, increase fiber, and get yourself into the habit of building meals around whole grains, beans and vegetables.

Eat fresh in season fruit twice a day. Stay away and restrict sugary fruit juices and have water or drink tea instead. Add a slice of lemon for some zest if you like. Eat more vegetables with lunches and dinner so you have at least 4 servings a day.

Eat a few servings of food using whole grains at each meal. Don't eat in front of the TV. Studies show that you eat larger portions of foods and snacks watching TV.

Choose calories you can chew that means only calorie-free beverages (except for milk). Sodas are replete with empty calories, and fruit juices provide less fiber and vitamins per calorie than the fruit they're made from. Plan ahead for meals and snacks so you know exactly what you plan to eat. Last-minute choice tends to be higher in calories and lower in satisfaction. - 16463

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