1

Stay hydrated

Thirst can sometimes masquerade itself as hunger. When you are hydrated you can better sense hunger. Oftentimes we think that we are hungry after eating a full meal but it is more likely that we are dehydrated.

As the weather starts to warm up staying hydrated can help ward off kidney stones as well

Women who drink more water also have better workouts- they have more energy during the workout and feel less fatigued

2

Snack on Fruits and veggies vs. package food items- more natural

We just are not eating enough fruits and vegetables. Some of us are still on low-carb diets and we lose these vitamins, minerals and fiber.

Some people go day after day without any fruit and maybe vegetables on a sandwich for example

Snacking is a great time to get fruits and vegetables in- a natural source of fiber, vitamins and minerals BUT you can still have fun with these treats that don't have a package on them to keep you interested

Make it fun and you will be more likely to stick with it- combine fruit with 1 ounce of dark chocolate or enjoy some baby carrots with hummus or a healthy smoothie.

3

Sweat Daily

You know those people who go to the gym and just steam/sauna/shower and leave -- well they are doing something good for their bodies, but if that describes you, I want to see you getting your sweat on via cardio, yoga or a walk.

Moving and sweating gives you radiant skin, improves your mood and circulation and helps your long term health.

You also burn calories and tone your body to keep you feeling fit and shapely.

4

Start cooking at home

This boils down to Knowing what is in your food. When you dine out you have almost no control over what you consume. Somebody else is dictating your portion sizes, food quality.

Also restaurants are more concerned with their bottom line than your waistline.

When you cook at home you not only save money but you also save calories.

Save money for that new swimsuit or LBD!

5

Skip the second cup of coffee and opt for tea

Tea and Coffee are two different beverages; Tea is made out of leaves of a plant while Coffee is made out of beans.

When we have coffee in the afternoon it may contain cream and sugar- tea we usually do a bit of honey or sugar to take some of or any of the bitter taste away.

So less calories overall. In addition, you get a different kind of anti-oxidant when you go for tea over coffee, especially when you do a black, green or white tea (said to enhance your metabolism)

The second cup of coffee may affect the next slimming strategy -- SLEEP!

6

Sleep for success

When we are rested our body just works better. Our body craves consistency and sleep is a critical success factor that affects our energy, mental alertness and cravings.

Your body needs time dedicated to recovery, rest, and in order to burn fat to get leaner you need consistent sleep hours.

Also for some, the later you stay up, the more likely you are to dig into the cabinets or refrigerator and consume extra calories!

Fun Factoids:

Allicin is the most potent substance found in garlic and has been shown to not only lower blood pressure, insulin and triglyceride levels, but also prevents weight gain.

Raisins are an anti-oxidant as well as a food that can prevent gingivitis, so keep throwing it into your trail mix or in your oatmeal.

Avocados are not only good for your cholesterol but they are healthy fats that you give skin. The oil that avocado extracts is good in toughening the skin by triggering production of collagen and therefore reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. But remember, everything in moderation -- too much good fat is still too much!