Thinking about maintaining or losing weight?

I watch Tyra Banks' America's Top Model sometimes, and I was so glad to hear the results this time around. The top model that was chosen was not your typical skinny size zero model. She was plus size, full figured good looking woman, and she felt proud of they way she looks. It was refreshing to see that it's not the weight that matters; it's the healthy person in that body - with high spirits and enthusiasm.

If you are looking to loose some weight, do it with patience, good eating habits and regular exercise. Do not expect any weight loss pills, or rigorous dieting to help you loose the weight. First you need to find out, if you really need to loose the weight. Most factors depend on your height and body mass. If your dietician or your doctor wants you to loose some pounds, make a plan, set a goal. You can make yourself some simple rules, and follow them religiously.

• Involve your family or friends - Involving your parents or friends can help you keep inspired for your weight loosing venture. Ask for their support and help while you are trying to make changes in your lifestyle.
• Small portions - Eating small portions more frequently helps many people improve their eating habits. Keep small snacks in your drawer at work or backpack in school. You can also keep carrot sticks, piece of fruit, yogurt etc.
• Junk Food - Ditch the junk food, not completely though. Banishing your favorite chips or peanut butter will make you want them more. Do not go fat free or for substitutes. Your body needs to have some fat to stay healthy. So, next time you are at a party, and you see that ice cream - go for it. But even that out the next day or so with the carrots or some other healthy snack.
• Watch what you drink - Drinking water or other sugar free drinks to quench your thirst is a way better idea than drinking that soda or sports drink. It can save you approximately 150 calories or more each day. Also, switching from whole milk to non fat or low fat milk is a good idea.
• Stop eating if you are full - Many people tend to eat more when they are stressed out, bored or lonely. They do not think if they were actually hungry. They just keep on eating even after they are full, because they have developed that habit. Slowing down while eating can help because it takes about 15 - 20 minutes for your brain to recognize how much is it in your stomach. Sometimes, take a break before taking the second serving. It may keep you from taking another serving.
• Avoid crash diets - If you heard from a friend that they have switched from regular meals to shakes or drinks, be assured that they did not make a healthy choice. We need a variety of foods to stay healthy. Getting proper nutrients in your diet us very important. Avoid dieting pills. They can not be good for your health.
• Fun activities - Loathe going to gym? Try a variety of activities like hiking, cycling, walking or dancing until you start liking one. If your school or work is at a walk able distance, try to walk a few times in a week. Do not take the elevator; take the stairs, help your mom or partner clean the house, do the gardening - anything that gets you moving.
• Indulge yourself once in a while - Reward yourself once in a week. Indulge yourself with your favorite ice cream, chocolate or anything you crave for. If you keep that as a ritual, you will be looking forward to that day in a week, after making sure you follow your rules.

Please remember, losing weight is not going to make you a better person, and change your life dramatically. It's just a good idea to maintain a healthy weight. By keeping your weight in the healthy range, you are less likely to be troubled by illnesses in your later years.