The "Quick Tips" article series offers suggestions that are practical, effective, and sure to bring you results. No gimmicks -- just tried-and-true, everyday advice.
- Check into alternative medicine.
Alternative methods of health treatment are not for everyone, but many people are finding success with Chinese medicines, acupressure and acupuncture, hypnosis and biofeedback. These types of treatments are extremely helpful in relieving stress, a problem that is often at the root of careless eating habits. - Soup's on!
Beginning your lunch or dinner with soup may help you eat less during the main course. Not only does soup help curb your appetite, but it also forces you to eat more slowly. You are more likely to pay attention to what you are eating when you are taking your time. And the best part? Many soups are low in fat and calories. Just be careful which soups you choose. Avoid creamy soups like clam chowder or cheese and bacon. Go for broth-based soups. Choose vegetable to work in some extra nutrients. - Make two rules. Stick with them.
Site visitor Sylvia Brown wrote me to say she made two rules in January for her year 2000 resolutions. They were: stop eating fried foods and stop drinking sodas. She admits that she gave into temptation every now and again, but overall she has stayed true to her goals. The result? More than 35 pounds lost in just less than nine months! - Think it through.
Do you ever find yourself saying something like "Nuts are fattening. I shouldn't have those almonds." only to choose something else altogether worse? Instead of taking advantage of the nutrients and protein they could offer, this thought leads you to label the almonds as "bad" because of their fat content. These thoughts just may lead you to say, "If I'm going to do it, I'll do it right!" Then you reach for that candy bar since it has just as much fat as the almonds! See the faulty logic here? Think through your food choices completely before you act upon them. - Desserts that aren't deadly.
In many cuisine, fresh fruit or fruit sorbet are served as desserts rather than the heavier cakes or puddings many of us have grown accustomed to. Reach for a sweet banana or a crunchy apple after a meal instead. Keep the fruit basket stocked, and stocked well with fresh, appetizing-looking fruits. Try new fruits you've never had before. You just may be surprised that fruit cures your sweet tooth. Think of the fat and calories saved and the extra nutrients gained!
