Newsletter

Trying to trim down? Start small and simple

Hellmich, Nanci

2014

Overview

Get some sleep. Getting enough sleep -- about seven to nine hours a night -- may help you lose weight. Studies show that not getting enough z's may alter hormones that make you hungrier. It's important to try to keep sleep patterns consistent on weekdays, weekends and vacations. Limiting big meals, booze and caffeine, especially close to bedtime, may help you fall asleep and stay asleep. Map out an exercise plan. Set clear goals, know what you'll do and pencil in your activity on your schedule as you would any appointment. Make specific plans to walk or run on a treadmill or in a park; take a class such as spinning, Zumba or tap dancing; play a sport such as basketball or tennis; or set a goal to train for a 5K, 10K or half-marathon. Monitor your movement with an activity monitor or pedometer. These are the first steps toward becoming a more active and vibrant person and a consistent exerciser. Trick yourself into eating less.\" Resist the urge to check your e-mail while you eat. Research shows that people who eat while distracted eat 10% more in one sitting than otherwise. Not only that, \"distracted eaters\" go on to eat up to 25% more total calories over the course of the day. You may save hundreds of calories just by eating at the dinner table and away from the TV.

• Publisher: USA Today, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, Inc
• Subject: Hellmich, Nanci