Eating Healthy Is Not That Difficult

It seems no matter where we turn there is some celebrity exclaiming that they are unraveling the difficulties of eating properly. Their program contains a 'miracle cure' that, even though the individual states they want to help us, really is nothing but common sense. Or, the media is making us believe that eating healthy is difficult, time-consuming or some other such negative connotation. It simply isn't true.

Moderation is the key. Stop eating an excess of processed foods. Not only will this help your budget, it will help your waistline. And...it's not that difficult. Totally eliminating your favorite items is not the key, that will just prompt a stronger response to have the food. Instead, eat the item in moderation. Cut the candy bar into bite-sized pieces and free the rest for future enjoyment. Buy a fast-food hamburger, but use the fat and calories content as part of your total dietary intake figures. You are keeping track of your food intake, eh? If not, start. That's the next item...

Use a food diary. Keep track of what you're consuming daily. Record the food item, the calories, saturated and trans fat, and cholesterol count. That's not difficult, either. You'll be surprised at how many unnecessary calories per day you eat.

Start steaming foods. Steaming provides the quickest way to cook foods and avoids all the excess fat usually involved in other food preparation methods. Which reminds me....

Fat is fat. I don't care how much choosing 'healthy' fats over harmful fats invade our literature. Fat is fat. Lowering your fat content will naturally lead you to eating a healthier meal plan. And, it's not that difficult. Learn to enjoy foods in their natural state. When consuming fat, however, choosing the unsaturated versions will be more heart-healthy than the harmful saturated and/or trans fats.

Speaking of trans fat, try to limit them as much as possible...or avoid them. Trans fat not only raise harmful cholesterol, but lower beneficial cholesterol, according to numerous reports done by a variety of sources including the American Heart Association, Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, etc.

For a simple, nutritious and tasty meal:
Steam a handful of spinach, one peeled and sliced medium potato, ½ cup of broccoli, one slice onion, 1 medium peeled and sliced carrot with a serving size of protein. Steam until all food is done. Remove and place onto serving plate. Sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Serve with a dollop of low or nonfat yogurt.

For variety, cook up ½ cup couscous or quinoa and mix with the above mixture.

Voila! How easy was that?

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5 CHEAP Ways to Lose Weight

With our society being known for having an obese population, it seems that there is a multitude of 'ways to lose weight'. Some of pure nonsense, some surgical, and some common sense. Some ways are easy, some take some work. In other words, there is something for everyone. Here are some ways to lose weight that plain and simply – use common sense and are cheap.

1. Drink water. How simple is this? So many people are concerned about how many sodas to drink. Do they need to decrease the amount? Should they drink diet sodas? Come on. Make your life easier. Just do not drink any. DRINK WATER! It fills you up. It is, simply, delicous and satisfying. Part of drinking more water includes water-based drinks such as tea.

2. Exercise more. This is so common sense, it is embarrassing to mention. However, with all the miraculous ways suggested to lose weight, it is basic. Exercise more, plain and simple. No matter if it is as simple as walking more than usual, do it. Do anything that involves more activity than what your current level is at. Even isometrics is good. Just do something physical besides sit in front of your television eating chocolates or junk food.

3. Steam foods. When you prepare your meals, simply use steaming as your method of cooking. It only involves the time to chop your food and place it in a steamer. Usually takes about 10-15 minutes of time. The taste is superb. The cost is cheap. Plus, there is decreased fat. You can experience the natural taste of food.

4. Decrease portion sizes. Our society has become accustomed to HUGE portion sizes of food. When eating out, take half your meal home in a doggy bag. Instead of eating 2 cups of cereal, cut back to 1 cup. Learn to enjoy eating a protein portion the size of a deck of cards. By learning to enjoy smaller portions, you will be amazed at how easy it is. Measure your food intake. It takes time, but is worth it.

5. Eat a well balanced diet. Forget those fad diets that have you totally eliminating certain food groups. Your body needs all food groups to function properly. It does not take a food scientist to know this.

Losing weight is not easy, especially as we age. It takes work and discipline. And, yes, it is easier said than done. By incorporating these weight loss suggestions into your lifestyle – you will reap the benefits. Go for it!

Weight Loss Tip - natural way

For anyone interested in losing weight the natural way - drink more water water. This is so common sense, but it works well. Besides filling you up, it is cheap, delicious, and convenient.

What more can you want?