10 winning weight-loss tips from a big loser

Our nation is suffering from high incidences of obesity-related diseases while we are bombarded with super-sized portions at restaurants and a multitude of fad diets.

by Jennette Fulda — 

Statistics on obesity in this country are staggering. Our nation is suffering from high incidences of obesity-related diseases while we are bombarded with super-sized portions at restaurants and, simultaneously, a multitude of fad diets. The messages are confusing at best and have made my shedding nearly 200 pounds in three years a monumental feat wrought with emotion and challenges. The following information helped me and can help you.

1. Do not fear the parsnip. Healthy foods do not necessarily taste bad. Do not be scared to try new fruits and vegetables. You might be surprised to find that parsnips, for example, taste good. Even if you discover that you hate rutabagas, you will not know until you have tried them.

2. Have some fun. If you really hate running on a treadmill, find an activity that you do enjoy, like biking or rollerblading. Make exercise a social event by playing basketball or tennis with a friend. You are more likely to sustain activities that you enjoy.

3. Slow down. Do not burn out by trying to change all your habits at once. It takes thousands of steps to finish a marathon, and you have the rest of your life to change.

4. Track your waistline online. You are not alone! Starting a blog keeps you accountable, and you will get support from other bloggers in good times and bad.

5. It is OK to ask for help. It is easier to accomplish your goals if you have a support system. Form a network of friends and family who will encourage you to keep going during tough times and praise you for your victories.

6. Think about getting a pet. You might be able to talk yourself out of going for a walk, but a dog might convince you to take a stroll in the park. If a cat is sleeping on your lap, it is a lot harder to get up for a second pudding pop.

7. Think positively. There are days when I eat too many cookies or I skip a run. Do not beat yourself up, just ramp it up in the gym the next day. The only way to change your body is to change your mind. Don’t focus on your failures; revel in your successes.

8. Be prepared. Waiting until you are hungry to find something to eat is like waiting until you are drunk to start driving — your judgment is impaired. Always have healthy snacks available, and you will be less tempted to go to the vending machine.

9. Life happens — adapt. Whether you get divorced or married, lose a loved one or have kids, get fired or move across country for a new job, find a way to incorporate healthy living into your new routine.

10. Do not wait until you are thin to start living your life. If you want to learn to tango or buy a pretty dress, do it now. The self-confidence you gain will help you succeed in all your life goals.

Jennette Fulda, a.k.a. PastaQueen, has officially lost 186 pounds, half her weight, and has written a book about the experience called Half-Assed: A Weight-Loss Memoir. She is a Web developer and writes several blogs in Indianapolis, Indiana. www.pastaqueen.com.

Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 27, Number 5, October/November 2008.