by Vea Terrie

Created on: July 06, 2008   Last Updated: October 29, 2008

In my last article, Even more tips to lose weight, I discussed the people dieters interact with each day and how they influence success or failure. The places we visit-fast food establishments, restaurants, movie theaters-any place where food can present a challenge; the things that target our weaknesses-billboard ads, magazine ads, TV; and those that affect our emotional well being-loneliness, boredom, stressful situations, and loss, also play a vital role in any weight loss plan. Even drinking a cup of coffee under certain conditions can trigger and re-established habits that can sabotage the most successful diet.

FAST FOODS:

If your pre-diet eating habits consisted of routine stops at a favorite fast food restaurant whether or not you were hungry, you will be irresistibly drawn to this place each time you pass by. Until wearing blinders when driving becomes legal or until you are strong enough to resist this temptation, find another route to your destination that will not compromise the success of your weight-loss goals.

RESTAURANTS:

There is no reason to abandon your efforts to establish a new and healthier life style just because you have a menu in your hands listing all the tempting foods that contributed to your horizontal growth and health problems. Not all meals must be high in saturated fats and carbs to taste good. That is a fallacy perpetrated by uncommitted people looking for any excuse to condone satisfying their unhealthy, and in extreme cases, glutinous cravings. The truth is you will find deliciously seasoned low fat meals of equal or superior taste in almost every restaurant. However, be wary of the selections offered. They are not always what they are touted to be. Look for the words roasted, broiled, or grilled when making your selection, skip the gravy and order it served au jus with steamed vegetables. I always take along a very small purse-size bottle filled with olive oil when I am eating out. A little olive oil and lemon juice or vinegar tastes great on steamed veggies.

Complex carbohydrates found in vegetables, whole grain breads, oatmeal, and brown rice, provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Potatoes' reputation as a high-carbohydrate white starch has removed them from the meals of most dieters, but they are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, copper, potassium, manganese, and dietary fiber in addition to other vital nutrients. This is no reason for you to go on a potato-eating binge, but a small baked potato eaten occasionally will

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