Spring is in the air, even if the snow is still on the ground in Otis…
With the warmer days and later sunsets comes the desire to get in shape for shorts and tanks. Many of us have put on our “winter weight,” like hibernating bears. For me, it’s the holiday season and my birthday that usually means an extra four or five pounds.
Spring, though, means that I can get outside and hike or walk, so it doesn’t take long to lose that little bit of weight gain. And, since I’ve stopped eating birthday cake by now, that will surely make a difference!
If you are looking to lose a few pounds this spring, here are some suggestions:
- Make your go-to snack something that fills you up but is nutritious. If you like baby carrots, you can always keep a bag handy; or maybe slice an apple before you leave the house in the Put the slices in a container with a few chunks of your favorite cheese (real cheese, not “cheese product”) so you can snack healthy when you get the urge. Trail mix is another option, but not the one with M&M’s. Nuts, seeds, raisins – make your own so you have what you like.
- When you purchase packaged food like cereals, breads, and yogurt, make sure you read the label. Not just how many calories are in it, but how much added sugar, how much Purchase products that have three or more grams of fiber per serving, less than four grams of sugar per serving, and at least three grams of protein. ALL fruit yogurts that I have seen have too much sugar, so get plain yogurt and add your own fresh sliced fruit.
- Get to know your food cravings! When you feel hungry, ask yourself if it’s something salty, cold, sweet, or spicy that you desire. If one of those answers comes to you quickly, then you can substitute a sliced apple for something sweet, or a cup of yogurt with a few sliced strawberries. Know your own cravings and how to get the taste that you desire without the extra calories that you don’t want. On the other hand, when you can’t figure out exactly the taste that your craving, you probably just need to drink a big glass of water. Many times, we think we’re hungry, when actually, our body is trying to tell is it’s thirsty!
- And, lastly, NEVER deprive yourself completely! There’s a lot of evidence showing that when we deprive ourselves of the foods we love, we actually end up craving them more. This is why many “diet plans” don’t work, they’re not sustainable. Occasionally, and guiltlessly, allow yourself something that really tastes good, but might not be that good for you; it will help you stick to the rest of your healthy eating goals. For instance, if you’re a soft pretzel lover – enjoy that treat once a month without feeling guilty!
Remember: when you eat the foods you like, find an exercise program that you like, and good friends who are on the same path, it’s much easier to make healthy choices in all other areas of your life.
Best of Health,
Kathi
