A Weight Loss Resolution You Can Keep

Registered dietician, Emily Anschlowar, MS, RD offers tips on how to set realistic goals for 2010.:

• Be Specific.  Don’t just say, “I want to lose weight.”  Instead, vow to lose two pounds per week for one year by exercising three to four times weekly and eating sweets in moderation.
• Get Serious.  If you’re not serious about losing weight and getting healthy, it is most likely you won’t achieve your goals, which can lead to feelings of shame and guilt.
• Take Stock.  Look through your fridge and pantry and throw out or donate unopened packages of foods that are high in saturated fat, trans fat and calories or highly processed. 
• Create a plan.  Plan out your meals in advance and create a weekly shopping list to keep you on track in the grocery store.  Also, develop a work out calendar, so you can pump yourself up the days you need to hit the elliptical machine.
• Don’t Deprive.  Your weight loss regimen should not feel like a punishment.  Instead of depriving yourself, allow yourself to splurge on foods you love in moderation.  For example, eat half of a chocolate bar once per week.
• Keep Snacking.  Noshing on whole grain snacks that are low in sugar will keep your energy up for that big meeting in between breakfast and lunch.  Snacking will also keep you from overindulging at mealtimes.   

• Change Your Habits.  Select foods that are naturally high in fiber and whole grains.  Make sure to hit all the food groups and practice portion control.
• Water it Down.  Water is great for weight-loss because it often replaces high-calorie drinks like soft drinks and juices packed with sugar.  Sticking to the “8 by 8″ (eight 8-ounce glasses of water by 8:00 p.m. daily) is a tried and true method to stay hydrated.