Creative Weight Loss Tips

We all want to lose weight today! Lose weight now, this very minute! But we should all realize when you lose weight quickly, it's only temporary. You must make a lifestyle change and for this change to stick, it has to be slow. The right process is to slowly cut back on your food intake and to increase your activity level.

Today I have included fun and easy ways to help you achieve the weight loss that you dream about. You will feel so terrific, I promise. Your attitude will improve, your energy level will increase and you will be amazed with what you can accomplish. Have fun, lighten up and isn't that what life is all about? All work and no play, make Jack a dull boy.

Try these for fun:

1. Chew cinnamon gum. The taste of cinnamon is more stimulating and it will keep you satisfied longer than the mint or fruit flavored gums.

2. Don't eat while reading, watching television, talking on the phone or working at your desk. When we eat, we should enjoy our food. Turn everything off and focus on your meal. If you find yourself wanting to eat, get up and remove yourself from that area. Engage in conversation with your family. How much time do you actually spend talking with your family? Your support system must be nurtured. Sit down. Have a great meal together without the television, you will find this so relaxing.

3. Get creative with foods you keep on hand for snacks. Try new snacks such as filling a bowl with fruit that you have never tasted. Who knows, this could be fun!

4. When dining out, order the salad first and light on the dressing. Have them put it on the side and use only half. Eat your salad first and it will help curb your appetite!

5. After work, wait for at least 20 minutes before going to the kitchen. This is a big one for EVERYONE! Change your route into the house if you have to. Maybe water the flowers first. Talk with a neighbor. Play basketball with your child. Or, better yet quickly stroll around the neighborhood. Talk about a great way to reduce the stress of the day.

6. It's a good idea to snack throughout the day. What? Yes, nutritious snacks will keep your energy level up. That is what our Olympians do while training.

I hope you enjoyed these little tips and if you would like to share one of your own, please send them via e-mail to mbatz78@hotmail.com and I will include them in next week's column.

Michele Batz is a physical education teacher and has enjoyed a 25 year career in sports education. She's the author of the upcoming book What Is Holding You Back? A Woman's Guide to Beginning Fitness is available through www.nightengalepress.com and www.amazon.com. You can email her at mbatz78@hotmail.com.