| For many dieters, stepping on the bathroom scale | | | | enemy. One 16 ounce can of Pepsi contains as |
| is not a pleasant event. We step on, the dial spins, | | | | much as 40 grams of sugar. That's 8 teaspoons! |
| and we watch in horror as the pointer lands on | | | | Some nutritionists refer to canned soda as "liquid |
| the final number. Losing weight can be difficult, | | | | candy", because it has no nutritional value, and can |
| especially for those who are unsure how to get | | | | actually increase hunger. To quench thirst, reach |
| started. Here are 5 simple tips to get started. | | | | for bottled water instead. |
| Eat Fresh. Fresh fruits and vegetables are vital to | | | | Take note. Many dieters find it helpful to keep a |
| a healthy diet. In order to get the recommended | | | | journal. Keep track of foods eaten, workouts, |
| daily allowance of vitamins like B12, C, K and | | | | goals, and even emotions and changes in mood. |
| others, the average person should aim to | | | | Writing everything down can help trace bad habits |
| consume at least 5-7 servings of fruits and | | | | and weed them out. It's also hugely encouraging |
| vegetables each day. It's easy to add these | | | | to see progress as days of good habits turn into |
| low-calorie super foods to any meal. Add some | | | | weeks, and weeks into months. |
| sliced strawberries to cereal, include fresh spinach | | | | Make it a Class Act. Feeling the camaraderie and |
| leaves in sandwiches, or snack on raw carrots or | | | | social aspect of group workouts can be uplifting |
| apples between meals. | | | | and refreshing. Try signing up for a class at the |
| Pick it Up. Any physical activity will help the scale | | | | local Pilates studio, or kickboxing at the nearest |
| number drop, but one of the most beneficial is | | | | gym. Support from others who are facing the |
| strength training. Lifting weights, whether in a gym | | | | same challenges or who have similar goals will lift |
| or at home, will help to build muscle, which in turn | | | | self-esteem, and experimenting with different |
| speeds up metabolism. Strength training helps | | | | types of exercise will fight off boredom and |
| improve coordination, mood, and energy levels. | | | | ensure long-term success. |
| Can the Soda. If weight loss is a war, sugar is the | | | | |