10 Simple Changes to Help You Lose Weight

Here are some simple changes anyone can make to their daily routine to help shed some pounds.  Sometimes it's the little things that can really add up to make a difference:

1. Park far away - Where do you park when you go to the store?  to work?  Why not park in the back lot and walk a little farther.  You will hardly notice the difference and as a bonus you won't have to circle the lot 5 times trying to find that perfect spot.  The extra steps you take each day can really add up over a year's time
2. Take the stairs - Instead of taking the elevator, why not take the stairs.  Do it every day for a little more calorie burn and it will probably take you just as long as the elevator
3. Take the dog for a walk - Do you just walk the dog to the nearest tree?  Why not take your dog for a 15 minute walk every day.  It'll help you burn calories and your dog might shed a few pounds too.
4. Play with your kids - When's the last time you chased your kids around the house?  Instead of plopping in front of the TV when you get home, why not get physical and have some fun with the little runts.  Wrestle with them, run with them, or play soccer.  It doesn't matter as long as you get that heart pumping.
5. Exercise during commercials - If you are watching TV, why not do a few exercises during the commercials.  Try to do pushups or sit-ups at each break.  By the end of the show I bet you will feel it.
6. Skip the soda - Instead of ordering soda every time you go out, why not get water.  It's cheaper (most of the time) and better for you.  Can't stand plain water?  Add a lemon to it for a little zest or order unsweetened ice tea.
7. Grab a granola bar - or a banana on your way out the door in the morning.  Often with our busy lives we end up skipping meals, breakfast especially.  Make sure you get at least something in your system when you get up.  Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day.  If you skip meals you just end up eating more at the next one.
8. Leave some food on your plate - If you are from my generation, it was drilled into you to "always clean your plate" (not that I ever really needed the encouragement mind you).  The next time you go out to eat, leave a little something behind.  Restaurant meals are always too big anyway.  Better yet, split the meal in half and take half home with you.
9. Try using chopsticks - You'll end up eating less because it will take you longer to get the food in your mouth.
10. Use smaller plates - Studies have shown that people tend to eat less when they use smaller plates.  A larger plate makes the meal look small so people pile it on in an attempt to fill it.

Got a simple change that works for you?  Send it to me at fogdog77@gmail.com .

[Photo: Flickr / Yoppy]