Simple slim-down strategies can help you get ready for swimsuit season
By Kathleen M. Zelman, MPH, RD, LD
WebMD Weight Loss Clinic - Top 10
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD
Before you know it, the often dreaded bathing suit season will be here. So don't wait; get started now with these 10 tried-and-true strategies that can help you whittle away those extra pounds.
By Kathleen M. Zelman, MPH, RD, LD
WebMD Weight Loss Clinic - Top 10
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD
Before you know it, the often dreaded bathing suit season will be here. So don't wait; get started now with these 10 tried-and-true strategies that can help you whittle away those extra pounds.
- Start each day with a nourishing breakfast of high-fiber cereal, skim milk, and sliced fresh fruit. This nutritious and delicious meal will keep you energized for your workout, and should satisfy you until lunch.
- Get a good night's sleep. Research has linked adequate sleep with better control over the body's "hunger hormones."
- Move whenever you can -- while watching television, waiting for the microwave to finish, folding the laundry, etc. Strap on a pedometer and try to take more steps each day. A recent study showed that people who wore pedometers took more steps during the day that those who tried to take regular walks.
- Satisfy your sweets cravings with low-calorie treats like fruit ice bars, fresh fruit, and hard candy.
- Schedule hourly walking or stair-climbing breaks. Take 10 minutes to fire up the engine and burn a few calories.
- Find a picture of a gorgeous bathing suit to have on hand whenever you're tempted to fall off your eating plan. Motivate yourself by giving yourself a nonfood reward whenever you reach a weight loss milestone.
- Replace the cream in your coffee with low-fat milk. Better yet, drink café au lait made with strong coffee and hot skim milk.
- Switch to light mayonnaise or mustard for your sandwich, and add lots of veggies.
- Watch your liquids. Juices, sodas, and alcohol add lots of extra calories. Drink noncaloric sparkling or plain water with a slice of lemon.
- Pay strict attention to portion control. If you find yourself backsliding, use the scales and measuring cups for awhile as a reminder of what a proper portion should look like.
Reviewed on May 16, 2006
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