Plan Ahead to Lose Weight

You plan your workday, your social dates, your family obligations … even your TV schedule.

If you’re trying to lose weight, you should add something else to that list: your meals.

Presumably you’ve plotted out an exercise routine, an essential component of any weight loss regimen.

But you’re going to need something to fuel those heart-pumping, calorie-consuming workouts.

Just as your exercise schedule boosts your chances of success, so does a well-devised nutrition game plan.

Before you hit the grocery store, do your homework. Consider each menu you’ll prepare for every day of the week, plus snacks, and write down the ingredients you’ll need.

For variety, include meals that you can switch up to suit your taste. Have several healthy choices on hand for breakfast, lunch, and dinner to keep you from getting bored with the same old foods.

If your diet plan involves eating foods you don’t like, it doesn’t stand much of a chance. Instead, focus on foods you enjoy, but tweak your cooking method to make it healthier.

Fried chicken, for example, can become oven “fried” chicken. Baked chips can replace the standard kind.

Taking the edge off your hunger with nutritious snacks can help you ignore the call of the brownies in the break room later.

To tackle snack attacks, make sure your fridge and pantry at home (and the community fridge and cabinets at work) are stocked with your favorite fruits, prepared veggies with a tasty yogurt dip, and other healthy choices.

If members of your staff are trying to shed some pounds (and we hope they are), helping them succeed starts with providing relevant information.

Share these tips on healthy eating from the American Dietetic Association.