by S. F. Heron

Created on: May 04, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Another day, another diet. You've tried every fad diet that comes across the wire. Maybe you've lost 10 pounds but before you know it, the weight has crept back on again. Let's change that once and for all. Successful weight loss involves a lifestyle change. Dieting isn't really even the correct word. Instead of thinking of your diet as a weapon of denial, consider it the first weapon in your arsenal for a healthier lifestyle. Reaching your personal weight goal requires a lifestyle change to promote good health and fitness. Let's look at 20 tips to help you change your life, stick to a healthier diet, continue to exercise and enjoy a healthier lifestyle far into the future.

1. Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water each day. Your body uses water to flush toxins from cells and cleanse the tissues and organs for good health. Simply replace your other beverages with cool, refreshing water instead. If this seems daunting, try substituting one beverage with water every few days. You'll be saving calories and doing your body a big favor too.

2. Limit caffeine and alcohol intake. Alcohol contains nothing your body needs to function and quite simply, it's a wasteful use of calories that could better be used consuming healthy foods.

3. Sleep. Allow yourself 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night. Proper rest promotes good daytime habits, good posture, and alertness. The added bonus is that when exercising regularly, your body continues to burn calories as you sleep. Capitalize on that bonus with a good night's rest.

4. Exercise as soon as you can after waking. Boost your metabolism with a 30-minute workout before getting ready for the day. Perform your morning workout before you eat breakfast to pack even more of a punch.

5. Eat smaller meals more frequently and never skip breakfast. Have three meals and three snacks spaced evenly throughout the day. This gives your body energy as well as promotes smaller portions since your stomach doesn't feel as empty.

6. You must consume fewer calories to lose weight. Reduction in calorie consumption should be spaced evenly over a period of time instead of a starvation scheme aimed to rapidly drop pounds fast. Gradually reduce the calorie intake as you teach yourself to eat foods high in nutrients such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Reasonable calorie reduction equals 200 calories less per day.

7. Set reasonable goals. Rapid weight loss often results in rebounding. Losing weight slowly produces the longest lasting results.

8. A "diet"

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