Monday, December 31, 2007

WNT on New Year Resolutions: Losing Weight (Part I)

Are you the one I heard say in the buffet line, "I'll start my diet after the holidays." No wait, that was me!

We've all said it while drooling over grandma's home made apple pie, except for that skinny bitch behind you that's already on her 3rd round. How can you say no when everyone's practically force feeding you at every party you attend? You can't say no, right? Okay, okay, we have to indulge sometimes, but now that the holidays are winding down we got to get back on track or for most of us, LET'S GET IT STARTED!

1. What do I do with all those boxes of goodies I got for Christmas?
So you have piles of See's Candies boxes, assorted cookie tins, rum cakes, and hopefully you didn't receive that dreaded fruit cake. Don't even think about eating all that yourself. How about sharing the joy and bringing them goodies to work with you? Make sure to place them in a high traffic area so you can get rid of them faster like a break room, kitchenette, or near the water cooler or coffee pot. Just don't put the fruit cake next to the boss' office. She might get the wrong idea and think twice about promoting you.

2. I have leftovers and I don't want to waste it.
Mom has always taught you not to waste food. Let's compromise. Try to make healthy choices when eating your holiday leftovers. First, eat when you're hungry, not when you're bored. If you're bored, have a glass of water and take a walk, take out the garbage, or knock a couple things off that "to do" list. If you have to snack, do it in moderation and with healthy choices like carrots or half a granola bar.

Second, when it's time to eat don't use the biggest plate you can find. As a rule of thumb, don't use any plate bigger than your face. Better yet, try to find a small saucer or bowl to put your meal in. This cuts down calories significantly. And when you're close to finishing your meal, leave a couple bites left on your plate. This can save you a few more calories.

3. I'm cutting down on food, what else can I do to lose weight?
Now that you've gotten your coworkers fatter, organized your whole house, and eating portions the size of happy meals, it's time to get a bit more active. Go to the mall and exchange those unwanted gifts and when you do, park on the far side of the parking lot or take the stairs instead of the escalator to increase your walking time. Do the same at work. Walk from one building to the other instead of catching the shuttle and take frequent breaks if you sit at the computer all day.


Now you know what to do. Then do it! Stay tuned for more losing weight tips.

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