My "No Seconds" Rule

Even though I successfully lost over 100 pounds, my choices are nowhere near perfect. The underlying causes for my earlier weight issues are still lurking in the shadows, waiting for me to let down my guard so the pounds can creep back on. Hence, as a recovering dieter, I need boundaries and guidelines to continue heading in the proper direction.

Consequently, my healthy lifestyle centers on portion control and an understanding of serving size. I usually choose only one serving of any food I eat and rely heavily on measuring cups and spoons, as well as a food scale, to help me keep my portions in check.

But after I fill my plate, I do not go back for seconds. Period. Additional helpings can be an incredibly slippery slope for me, making it much too easy to overindulge. This is especially true for snacks. I pre-portion, never eat from the container, and never return for more.

This one rule really keeps me on track with my eating, especially since I seem to be a lifetime member of the clean-my-plate club. Frankly, if it’s on my plate, I will probably eat it. So I am cautious to serve myself only an appropriate quantity of food.

To Subtract Pounds, You First Need to Add

It is widely accepted that dieting (i.e., deprivation) simply does not work. The mere act of denial sets us up for ultimate failure. But a simple shift in perspective can make the path to weight loss much easier. Just focus on adding instead of subtracting foods from your diet.

For me, this small change in how I approach my journey has made all the difference. In fact, my weight loss journey did not feel like dieting, compared to my earlier (failed) weight loss attempts. Rather, this time around I have focused on adding healthy choices to my lifestyle. For instance, I consistently include water, fresh fruits and veggies, lean and low-fat options, and whole grains, as well as consistent exercise. These "extras" have become the foundation for my new, healthy life.

Now this does not mean I ignore calories altogether. Weight loss and maintenance both require vigilance when it comes to balance and moderation. But while taking away our choices does not work, adding in healthy good stuff really does.

So try banishing the 4-letter word "DIET" from your vocabulary and add, add, add while subtracting pounds and inches!