Updated March 08, 2014.
- Take Time to Taste Test
Years ago, when reduced- and non-fat versions of "regular" foods began coming out, I had quite a few bad experiences. Most items didn't even resemble their higher-fat counterparts in taste, texture or smell! But, I am pleased to say that there have been vast improvements since then.
Don't be afraid to try low- and non-fat versions of your favorite foods; you just may be surprised. In fact, I know of a few reduced-fat items that I now prefer to the regular versions! You'll have to taste them to believe it!
- Danger, Dieter, Danger!
I've got some real trouble areas in my house. I'll bet you've got them, too. For example, if you know sitting in the kitchen when you're waiting for a phone call is going to cause you to raid the pantry... leave the room. If lingering at the dinner table makes you long for dessert... vamoose! As soon as you've finished your meal, head outside and take a walk[/a]. Not only will it get your mind off of eating, you'll have the extra benefit of exercising. Don't use the kitchen table for other activities like paying bills if you know you can't fight temptation while you're there. - Who Does that Cinnamon Bun Think She Is?
I have tended to use food to relax in the past, but breaking that habit has been a key behavior change that helped me lose weight. Is food the high point of your lunch or "coffee" break? Is eating how you de-stress during time away from your desk? Try making something else priority during your break, like taking a walk or listening to an audio book. That way you can relax without the tendency to over-eat or not eat mindfully.
- Mini Workouts Work
It's tough for me to set 30 or 40 minutes every day for exercise, as is the case for many of us. That doesn't mean we get to cross fitness off our to do list! In recent years, exercise experts have conceded that the 30 minutes of activity a day we're all advised to get doesn't have to be in one lump of time.
Breaking the half hour into three 10 minute increments may be just as good for you. Work in a 10 minute walk before work, at lunch and when you get home. By the end of the day, you've gotten 30 minutes of exercise broken up into tiny jolts! - Go Your Own Way
Last, but not least, getting more activity each and every way you possibly can will lead to calories burned and a waist whittled. Since I've started walking wherever I need to go on my lunch break, I've seen better results than I ever expected. Plus, getting the fresh air mid-day helps me start the afternoon refreshed.
Think about how you can work more activity into your life. Why not park your car farther away from your door at work? Take the steps to your apartment instead of the elevator. Walk to someone's desk in another department to ask them a question instead of e-mailing them. I know someone who wears a pedometer and doesn't stop until she has walked 10,000 steps each day! She's lost 30 pounds in nine months. You go, girl!