by Dawn R. Babcook

Created on: August 18, 2010   Last Updated: August 19, 2010

Losing those extra, unwanted pounds is a very big task and one that takes a lot of hard work and dedication for most of us.  And there are a number of reasons for the weight gain to begin with and for the reasons why it is so hard to lose those pounds.  Stress is one of the biggest factors with either case in my opinion, as so many of us eat when we are depressed and this makes it harder to shed the extra pounds.  Some of us can do it on our own but then others of us find it much easier to lose the weight if we have another willing participant to work with.

The first rule of thumb in order to lose those extra pounds that you so desperately want is to manage what your body takes in.  I always strive personally for taking in no more than 1200 calories per day as that seems to be a good round number of calories for me with my height.

  I have personally sat down and checked the calories before preparing my meals so that I knew exactly what I would be intaking and if I felt that it was a bit much I would either cut it back a bit more or try and consume fewer calories during my next meal.  Also, we have all heard that breakfast is the most fundamental meal you can consume as it gives your body and metabolism a jump start for the day and is supposed to help curb your appetite throughout the day.  Snacking is alright in moderation and if it is the proper kind of snack, such as fruits, vegetables or nuts. 

The next big thing to try and remember is that you need to exercise, exercise, exercise.  You don't have to wear yourself out with hardcore strenuous exercise either, it can be something as simple as a 10 minute walk per day say over your lunch hour or after dinner. 

 Exercise is a key with any weight loss regimen as it not only helps your body rid itself of the excess pounds but it also makes your body become healthier in the end.  It strengthens your muscles, tones you up and is great for your lungs and heart.  It keeps the blood flowing freely throughout your body and will keep you health for years to come.  I strive for 20-30 minutes of exercise a day and I include my housework as part of that routine as doing housework allows for you to stretch, bend, kneel and squat which are all wonderful forms of exercise.

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