Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Nine Ways to Lose Pounds in 2009

By Dorthy Weatherbush

Nobody likes the word 'diet'. It brings to mind scrimping and going without all the things you love. It's especially difficult to reinforce your will power after the holiday season.

But it's not all horrible. There are numerous ways to lose pounds speedily without it being painful and it is a lot easier than one might think - if you know what you're doing.

Here are the top nine ways to lose pounds in 2009.

1. Water Many people do not drink water at all, and yet it is the best way to naturally clean out your body and simultaneously shed pounds. Drinking enough water is so easy. Just drink a glass of water before every meal and snack and you will feel rehydrated and fuller so you will be less tempted to over-eat at mealtimes.

2. Fiber Fiber gives another opportunity to help you lose weight and make you feel full at the same time. By adding fiber to your diet, you can actually reduce and get rid of awful hunger pangs. Foods like fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and beans will increase your intake of fiber, making you feel full faster and lose weight faster too!

3. Snacks Just because you're losing weight, that shouldn't mean you go without food. Feel free to snack whenever you're hungry. Your metabolism will actually speed up a little by eating more. Just be careful with the types of snacks you choose. It's always fine to snack on nuts or fruit, but you can also add a snack-size tub of low-fat yogurt or baked rice crisps. Just be sensible about your snack choices.

4. Walk Take every opportunity to walk. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park further away from the store and walk the rest of the way. Stroll around the block with your dog or with a friend. Switch on your stereo and just wiggle to the music.

5. Grill it up Switch from frying foods to grilling them, order grilled when you go out to eat. Grilling is easier than and just as tasty as frying. It's healthier and has fewer calories than fried foods.

6. Side Dishes We have been groomed to believe that meals are not complete without fries on the side. Instead of eating fries, eat a simple and healthy salad or steamed veggies.

7. Processed Foods Pre-packaged deli ham, chicken and turkey are quick and easy to have available in the fridge, but they have high levels of sodium. Sodium makes your body retain fluid and makes it harder for you to lose weight. Don't buy pre-packaged processed foods whenever possible. Opt for fresh options.

8. Keep It Lean You can eat red meat and poultry if you like, just remember to buy lean cuts. Cut off any excess fat and remove the skin from chicken before grilling. That way you keep the fat levels down.

9. Meal Replacement Meal replacement diets can be a very handy way to shed pounds quickly. Simply replace your normal lunches with a great replacement shake so you're still getting all the nutrients you need without all the calories to go with it.

Follow these simple tricks and you'll be surprised with the results. - 15343

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