Friday, December 26, 2008

Nine Ways to Lose Pounds in 2009

By Dorthy Weatherbush

Everybody hates the word 'diet'. It makes you think of pain and misery. It is definitely hard to keep your will power to stay on a diet during the holidays.

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 tips to lose pounds in 2009.

1. Water Most people do not drink enough water on a daily basis, but it is honestly the best way nature gives us to clean out our bodies and helps us stay slim at the same time. Drinking enough water is so easy anybody can do it. Simply drink a glass of water before every meal and every snack and you will be refreshed and you will feel fuller, too full to over eat or reach for sweets.

2. Fiber Fiber is a brilliant weight-loss secret that can help you lose weight at the same time as making you feel full. You can actually reduce your hunger pangs by eating enough fiber in your diet. Simple foods like fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and beans will increase your fiber intake, make you feel full faster and help you lose weight quicker.

3. Snacks Dieting does not mean going without food. You should feel free to snack whenever you are hungry. Your metabolism will increase just by eating more. Be careful however, of the types of snacks that you choose to eat. It's always okay to eat nuts and fruit; you can also add a snack size tub of yogurt or baked rice crispies. When it comes to snacking, just be careful about the snacks you choose to eat.

4. Walk Use every chance you get to walk. Instead of taking the elevator, use the stairs. Park in the back of the store parking lot and walk. Go for a walk in your neighborhood or at a local park with your dog, or with a friend. Or if you want to stay home, turn on your stereo and walk around your house.

5. Grill it don't Fry it Stop frying your foods and try grilling them. Grilling is easy and takes less time than frying. It's also healthier and has fewer calories.

6. Side Dishes We as a society are conditioned to believe that a meal is not complete without a side of French fries. Try replacing fries with a salad or with steamed vegetables for a healthier option.

7. Processed Foods Pre-packaged ham or chicken slices are quick and convenient to have in the fridge, but they contain high levels of salt. Salt helps your body to retain fluid and makes it harder for you to shed those pounds. Avoid pre-packaged processed foods wherever you can and replace with fresh options.

8. Keep It Lean You can still eat red meat or poultry, just be sure to buy the leanest cuts you can find. Trim off any excess fat and remove the skin from chicken and then grill your meat to keep the goodness in and the fat levels down.

9. Meal Replacement Meal replacement diets are quick and easy, and can keep you slim. All you have to do is eat a pre-prepared meal in place of you breakfast, lunch or dinner. These meals are available through a variety of companies and take the guess work out of diet planning.

Follow these simple tricks and you'll be surprised with the results. - 16004

About the Author: