Help Me Keep The Pounds Off Keeping weight off isn't usually the first thing one thinks of before selecting their favorite restaurant but we thought a few tips would be worth your time. For those visitors who are trying to lose a few pounds or more, particularly during the holidays: Things to Consider Trying Portion Control - Probably one of the easiest techniques in weight loss is controlling your food intake. Whether you are eating at home or dining out at your favorite restaurant, the amount of food you put on your plate is going to have a direct bearing on your calorie consumption. If you have more than a few pounds to shed, consider reducing your normal portion size by 50% at each meal. If you have less than ten pounds to lose, than try an approximate 33% reduction in the portion size. Regardless, apply the reduction to everything on your plate. Calorie Counting - Learn how to count calories. There are plenty of calorie counting resources available at your local book store. Make sure the calorie guide is a comprehensive one and that it contains a section on packaged foods. Remember, 3,500 calories add up to a pound of fat. You should know what your average daily calorie consumption (burn) is to maintain your current weight. So there are 3 things to consider here. First, what is the number of calories you can eat and maintain your current weight? Second, if you are gaining weight, how many calories are you currently consuming and how many calories need to be reduced to stop the weight gain. Third, determine how much weight you would like to lose per week, say an average of 2 pounds per week. Once you have a good idea on these 3 points, you can determine the approximate number of calories you can eat each day to begin achieving the 2 pound per week loss. Exercise Program - Your daily diet along with exercise will have a direct impact on achieving your weight loss goals. Determine the amount of time you have to exercise each day and then determine how to maximize the calories you can burn for the amount of time you have available.  Smart Food Shopping -Low cost, low calorie frozen meals. Read the food manufacturing labeling. While there are a number of companies who specialize in nutrition products/plans that you can purchase on weekly basis, many of these programs are relatively expensive. You can usually find similar products in the frozen foods section at your local grocery store for far less than signing up the typical meal plan that is delivered to your home.  Smart Dining Out - Portion control and smart menu choices should be maintained at all times. Diet Support Groups - There are a number of free weight loss support groups that are available.  For those visitors who have recently reduced their weight and now feel challenged to either maintain their weight or to take steps to help from putting unwanted pounds back on: The Challenge While losing the weight was probably a daunting and difficult task at times, the real challenge comes after you have shed the extra pounds. Temptations abound, particularly around the holidays and become a slippery slope for those wanting to maintain a healthy balance of good eating and good body chemistry. Chances are you are feeling fantastic and you are energized to do many things you have been wanting to do but lacked the energy or stamina to participate in. All material provided on this webpage is provided for informational or educational purposes only. Consult your physician regarding the applicability of this information or opinion before embarking on any weight loss program. Your medical condition or symptoms should be discussed with your physician.