1. Drink Water- Hunger is often confused with dehydration. Next time you feel like a snack, have a glass of water. Even mild dehydration can alter our body's metabolism, so aim to drink eight glasses a day and limit soda, caffeine, and alcohol. It is also agreed that drinking water before meals can help promote weight loss. Studies show people who drink two glasses of water before meals feel fuller and eat less.
2. Eat carbs-REAL carbs!- Replace refined carbohydrates like white bread, pasta, bagels, cereal and pretzels with complex carbohydrates from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Fruits and vegetables are high in fiber which slows digestion and promotes stable blood sugar levels. They're also packed with antioxidants which help reduce inflammation in the body. Whole grain carbohydrates should always be chosen over refined varieties. Think about eating them as you would find them in nature- breads made from wheat that's milled, brown rice simply taken straight from the plant complete with fiber and phytonutrients the way Mother Nature intended they be eaten!
3. Choose healthy fats- A common misconception is that fats should be completely eliminated. In reality, we could not live without fat. The body utilizes dietary fat for energy, health of hair, skin and nails, vitamin absorption and normal everyday bodily functions. Good fats promote several health benefits such as protection against heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer's, and depression, as well as reduced blood pressure and lower cholesterol. Choose sources such as nuts, seeds, fish, avocado, organic virgin coconut oil and extra virgin olive oil.
4. Emphasize lean protein- Our bodies require protein to continuously renew and replenish our cells, stabilize our blood sugar, and give us energy. Our bodies are literally made out of the amino acids that make up protein in our food. Many foods contain protein, but the richest sources include animal products like meat, dairy, eggs and fish, as well as plant sources like beans, nuts, and seeds. When choosing animal protein sources, be conscious of the way the animal was raised and what it ate. Grass fed beef and free range chicken are healthier and more ethically sound choices than feedlot meats. Organic yogurt and cage-free eggs are great for vegetarians, while tofu, tempeh, and nut butters are good vegan protein sources.
5. Eat breakfast- By eating a hearty breakfast, you'll give your metabolism a jump start and be in better control of your cravings. When we miss our first fuel of the day, by mid morning we are hungry and more likely to engage in mindless nibbling, snacking, overeating, and over compensating for any calories "saved" by skipping breakfast. Studies repeatedly show daily breakfast consumption is associated with maintaining a healthy weight. But if you're not ready for breakfast early in the morning, listen to your body and eat when you feel it's best for you.
6. Eat more frequently- It's important to balance your food intake throughout the day to help maintain normal blood sugar and decrease the chances of binging when hunger strikes. Try to keep track of your meal choices and balance caloric intake. Feeding your body on a regular basis lets it know food is available and it's okay to burn energy rather than conserve and store it as fat.
7. Exercise your body and mind- Exercise has enormous benefits for your mind and body with research boasting decreased body weight, smaller waist circumference, lower resting heart rate and blood pressure, and it boosts your mood! Strive to be active at least 30 minutes every day to help keep your body strong and lean. It doesn't have to be expensive- any movement is better than none. Try these tips to get moving:
1. Get off the subway or bus one stop earlier.
2. Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
3. Go on daily jogs or walks.

         Even playing with your children in the park or trying a hand at             gardening will keep your body active. It's also just as important to keep your mind active. Boost brainpower by spending time thinking positively, meditating, or practicing activities that require deep thought like reading or playing Sudoku.

9. Learn to cook- Cooking meals at home allows you to control portion sizes and quality of ingredients, and it cuts your intake of sodium, fat and calories. Avoid frying foods by learning to roast or bake, and eat more raw foods to boost flavor and cut calories. Use herbs and spices to reduce salt intake.