Ten diet mistakes

If it was as simple as the energy-in less energy-out equation, most of us would be a healthy weight. So, to be successful in losing and managing weight you need to identify unhelpful behaviours that sabotage your personal situation and work out how to counteract them.

Following are some recurring habits that will reduce your sucess:

* Lack of activity - at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day is required
* Falling for fads - if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
* Emotional eating - consuming to reduce stress doesn't help.
* Alcohol - drinking your kilojoules will also reduce your will-power - cut down/out the alcohol.
* Eating for two - Mums to be should eat well, not in excess.
* Skipping breakfast - this will give you an energy slump mid-morning where you'll want to "snack", you'll also be tired and will eat the first thing in sight (eg fast food).
* Accepting "free" food - whether it's a mouthful at the supermarket demo, nibbles at the pub, or the Xmas party, think about everything you put in your mouth.
* Value for money - the "eat as much as you can for $x" offer, isn't a good deal. Also not leaving anything on your plate ... if you're full, stop!
* Multi-tasking, or eating on the run - Your digestive system will thank you for sitting somewhere quiet and enjoying your meal. Slow food rules!
* Motivated by looks alone - can lead to a spectrum of eating disorders.

In summary, if you want to lose weight, exercise daily and eat healthy meals. You can also try this "tricks"

+ Use a smaller plate (so it looks full)
+ Stop eating when you're full, regardless of what's left
+ Have 6 little meals: breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and supper. Snacks should include fruit and nuts, seeds etc.
+ Emotional eaters try a handful of plain nuts (NOT chocolate coated)
+ When going to a party, eat before-hand
+ Carry a protein bar in your bag for when you get "caught short".