Spring Slim Down: Nutrition and Fitness Tips to Help You Slim Down for the Warmer Months Ahead

07/05/07 Spring not only marks the transition from winter to summer, it can also be a great time to get back on the healthy track.

According to renowned fitness and nutrition expert, Kelli Calabrese, it's not just about dieting, but altering how you eat. "Instead of starting a diet that alters what you eat and how much you eat all at once, make small, but permanent healthy eating changes everyday. There are four easy changes that we can all start incorporating in your life today," says Calabrese.

Studies show that making breakfast a daily habit will help you to lose weight and keep it off. Calabrese maintains that by eating a healthy breakfast you increase your metabolism, consume fewer calories through out the day and increase a hormone called Leptin that suppresses hunger. "Slimming down doesn't mean that you have to go hungry. There are healthy ways to feel full and not famished," says Calabrese. "You should chew slowly and think about the food that you are eating. Also, something you may not be aware of is that eating a wedge of watermelon before you start your meal is a great way to feel satiated. Watermelon is 92% water and will help satisfy your appetite and as a result you may eat less. It's available all year long, is a nutrient dense food, an excellent source of vitamins A, B6 and C and has more lycopene than any other fresh fruit or vegetable."

The good news is that you should satisfy your cravings. Saying no will only make you want them more. "One quick and simple snacking solution is to replace poor snacking habits with a delicious, portion-controlled option like Quaker Mini Delights," says Calabrese. "They are bite-sized, multi grain rice cakes that not only taste great but also help to satisfy snack time urges. And at 90 calories per pack, they help calorie-conscious women stay on track throughout the day. Since temptation is everywhere, at the office, at home, in the car and after a strenuous workout, women can indulge their cravings with their three delicious flavors of Chocolatey Drizzle, Cinnamon Streusel and Buttered Popcorn."

Finally, get moving! "Incorporate some kind of exercise in your daily routine -- it does not have to be a 1 hour daily gym commitment," says Calabrese. "Integrate simple methods of activity throughout your day and it can help you to not only stay healthy, but also lose weight. For example, take long walks with your dog, take the stairs instead of the elevator and utilize easy at home exercise products."

"By incorporating these four small changes in your life," says Calabrese, "you will not only lose weight but also reap big health payoffs."