How to Reach Your Diet Goals

By Robin Westen



You’re only five or ten pounds away from your target weight loss, then suddenly the scale sticks. Sound familiar? Well, even the most dedicated dieter is likely to hit a plateau at some point even if you’re strict about following an exercise and diet routine.



Try these five tips to get you over the hump:

To start a conversation on reaching your diet goals click here

Kiss Refined Carbs Good-Bye. Studies show consuming a meal with low-glycemic carbs about three hours before your workout promotes more effective fat burning than a meal packed with refined carbs. White bread, cornflakes, and ice cream are examples of high glycemic foods.

Pass Up Alcohol. Booze not only adds calories to your diet, but it slows your metabolism. Plus, it reduces your motivation to work out and diet.

Switch Up Your Exercise Routine. Your body gets used to exercise if it’s the same ole’ and won’t need to burn as many calories. So, alternate with walking or running, swimming, weight lifting, or enroll in a group aerobics class.

Drink Lots of Water. If you’re not drinking enough water during the day, your body could be retaining water, adding to the numbers on the scale. Try consuming about half your body weight in ounces of water every day, especially if you work out a lot --and even more if you’re outside in the heat.

Get More Support. Most friends and family don’t want to sabotage your diet, but they may be doing it unwittingly. Next time they hand over a calorie-laden dish, patiently ask them to help you out by offering a low-calorie substitute.

To start a conversation on reaching your diet goals click here