I’m going to be posting some reviews of popular diet programs that, over the years, have proven to work effectively, but here are a few tips that will help you make some sensible choices for a lean and healthy lifestyle.

1. Eat with Purpose. You’ve probably heard the saying “Eat to live, don’t live to eat”. Take that another step further and eat based on what you are actively doing. A person who is in training will eat differently than a person who is sedentary. If you’re working out with weights, trying to lose weight, maintaining weight, or gaining fitness, you’re nutrition needs will change accordingly. You may even have differing nutrition requirements from day to day or in seasons of your life.
2. Eat Foods in Their Natural State. Whole, unprocessed food, with no additives and preservatives is the smart way to eat. Find local, “in season” produce when you can to avoid the sprays, chemicals and green picking that makes food devoid of nutritional benefits. Besides being healthier, it’s a great way to go green and support your local farmers. Shop the outer limits of the store and learn to read labels. If you do eat processed, look for foods that have higher levels of fiber and whole grains and avoid things that end in “ose”, which is a sign of added sugar, and transfats.
3. Eat Less More Often. Studies are showing it’s beneficial to eat 5-6 small balanced meals or snacks daily instead of large meals 2-3 times a day. Smaller servings keep your blood sugar more stable, provide a steady source of fuel for the body and regulate the metabolism. Just make sure you aren’t snacking on junk food that is high in fats, sugar, and calories.
4. Avoid the Following:

• high fructose corn syrup
• soda
• excessive alcohol
• transfats
• artificial sweeteners.

5.   Stay the Course. Probably the #1 reason most dieters fail is they quit before they get the results they desire. If something isn’t working for you, try something else. Every body is different in its nutritional needs and response to dieting.  If you reach a plateau, change it up or step it up. Get a buddy that will hold you accountable or maybe even partner with you to lose weight. Create a strong why from the start for losing weight, and journal your progress so you don’t get discouraged and can assess what’s really working for you.

Remember, fat loss takes effort and time. Educate yourself on  eating healthy. Be willing to try new and different things using the 5 simple tips above to see what works best for your body type and lifestyle. That way you can replace the confusion with confidence that you’ll reach your goal.