Weight Loss Tips

Do you have that same New Year's resolution that you have every year...? Well maybe this year it will be different! Here are some tips to help you succeed at your weight loss in 2008!

1. Find a Buddy
Experts have found that those losing weight with a buddy have a higher rate of success. Not only do you have a great support system, you will have more fun. You will be more likely to go for that long walk with your buddy than if you are going solo.

2. Clean out your cupboards.
Throw out all the junk and stock your kitchen full of healthy foods such as cut up veggies and whole grain cereals. If you make it easy to eat these good foods, you will actually do it!

3. Allow for treats
Yes, you heard right! Allow for some splurges will help you feel content and will keep those feelings of deprivation away. If you feel deprived, you are more likely to fall off the wagon.

4. Set realistic Goals
Set goals that are made for you and that make sense to you. Don't aim to go to the gym every day if you hate the gym. Why not take up ballroom dancing or swimming...whatever you like best to keep active will work!

5. Write it down
Pick up a notebook and start keeping a journal of the foods you eat and the exercise that you do. This will allow you to take note and make any adjustments that are needed in your routine.

6. Keep tabs on your weight
Don't go for a month without checking in on your weight. Even if you don't use a scale, try on your favorite pair of pants...do they feel too tight? If they do, you know you have a little work to do to get those pants feeling perfect on you! Nip it in the bud before the pounds add up!

7. Tell your Friends and Family
Those who have a great support system are more likely to succeed in losing weight. It is a difficult task and we need all the support we can get. So tell your friends and family about your resolution and they will become your cheerleading team!

8. Do not skip meals
Skipping a meal will do you more harm than good. You will be more likely to eat too much later on and, if you keep skipping meals, you will cause your metabolism to slow down.

9. Portion Control
Pay attention to the size of your meals. North American meals tend to be WAY too large. Plan the size of your meal and stick to it. The extra calories on that 'second helping' is where the calories are coming from and causing your pounds to add up.

10. Get Moving
Yes, you've heard it many times...adding exercise to your daily routine will boost your metabolism. If you are new to exercise, start with a 20 minute walk once a day. You will notice a huge difference to health and weight loss within weeks.