This is an email I received from my of my readers. I think it will inspire you...

"Enough was enough! My whole family had been slowly gaining weight over the years due in large part to convenience foods. When we diet we deny ourselves the things we love (potatoes and desserts) - then we get depressed about not having those comfort foods and binge - heading to DQ for a large Blizzard or heading to fast food for French fries.

 

In May, I decided to change the way we think about food and dieting and instead of going on a crash diet, I started keeping track of calories and exercise minutes. When I realized just how many calories

were in some of the things we had been eating regularly we made adjustments.

 

Instead of denying ourselves the things we love, we started to indulge in small doses or make small changes to the things we were eating. For example, instead of eating a large Blizzard, we indulged in a one scoop ice cream cone. Instead of heading to the coffee shop for a Vanilla blended latte, we make our own coffee smoothies using sugar free Torani's.

 

I keep fruit at work for when I am hungry and now find I don't even really crave a Snickers bar in the afternoon - instead I crave an apple, orange or a handful of baby carrots. Grocery store candy bars are rarely a temptation now, but when they are instead of buying three giant size candy bars, we get one and split it between the three of us.

 

My husband, my 13-year-old daughter and I have each lost 20 pounds over the summer and we all feel better and have more energy. 

Anyway - thanks for helping me realize that cutting all carbs or never eating chocolate is not the way to lose weight. It's making small changes in the way you think about food."

 

S. J.

Davenport, IA

An audience member recently asked me this question, "I'm trying to not eat while watching TV at night, but everyone else is! What can I do so I don't feel so deprived?"

 

You, too? Here are some ideas:

 

 

Here's another idea to tone up muscles and burn some calories, while having fun....rock climbing. And, you don't have to risk your life on a cliff!

 

Indoor rock climbing gyms are filled with artificial cliff-like walls with shaped climbing holds that allow you to climb with a partner. And, because you're secured with a safety harness on a climbing rope, this activity is considered fun and safe sport for all ages. Climbing facilities provide a controlled, supervised environment where novice through professional climbers can exercise in an enjoyable way." At www.indoorclimbing.com, you can search for an indoor climbing gym near you.  

 

Melissa, in this picture, describes climbing as, "I love that it's a sport you have to do with a  friend. Whoever is at the bottom to belay you can cheer you on, guide you up the wall, and of course keep you from falling. It's a fun work out that targets you're entire body, not just your arms."