Managing Your Weight

Healthy eating doesn't have to make you cry and run to the nearest fast-food restaurant for comfort. By starting slow and making gradual changes you'll be knocking off those unwanted pounds in no time.

A good first step would be to limit daily salt in-take. While it's true that salt is needed in our diets, most food companies already add it to pre-packaged foods, so we really do not need to add anything more. Too much salt is bad for the heart and can lead to high blood pressure.

Millions of people in America are addicted to sugar. Just by cutting down on the amount of sugar you eat will result in a 6-8 lb reduction within the first week or so. Keep in mind that our bodies transform carbohydrates into sugar, so cutting back on white flour, processed pasta, white rice, is also necessary.

By digesting too much sugar will lead to an over stimulated insulin release that can contribute to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, PMS, depression, mental confusion, lack of concentration, infertility and early signs of aging.

It is necessary that lower fat consumption is also added to our daily weight management plan. Avoid all fried foods and opt instead for foods that are baked, broiled, grilled,roasted, steamed or stir-fried. Increase your daily intake of fruits and vegetables and add 3 - 4 ounces of protein four times a week. Good protein choices would include fish, chicken, peanut-butter, and low fat cheese.

Drink water. Experts advise that we drink enough water in a day that is equal to our body weight in ounces. Simply replacing soda and sugar enriched fruit juices with water or green tea adds years to our life and is more beneficial than you can imagine. Green tea has been found to fight cancer and lower weight by changing our metabolism. It is good both hot or on ice.

Reach for a glass of low-fat milk. Low-fat dairy products have been found to actually aid in additional weight loss. Just remember to stay within the recommended 1,000 mg daily dietary in-take as well as a 1,900 calorie diet.

Exercise. Sorry, I know you were hoping that I would forget to add this piece of advice, but it does have so many benefits to our health. People who exercise daily for 30 minutes have more energy, better balance and coordination, better moods and a more fulfilling sex life. Daily exercise has also be contributed to the prevention of serious health problems.

So, get up and get moving! Take the stairs, walk the dog or use the push mower to mow the lawn. You'll look and feel better in the long run.