Jumpstart Your Way To Weight Loss & Better Health

Spring is here and it's time again to do some spring cleaning. In addition this year to spring cleaning your home, jump start your way to weight loss and better health by cleaning up your diet. Here are a few ways to start eating healthier.

Don't skip breakfast - Numerous studies have shown that not only is eating breakfast important when trying to lose weight, but also for better brain functioning, controlling blood sugar, and helps us to avoid overindulging at lunch. If food doesn't sound appealing for breakfast, try a smoothie or protein shake.

Opt for water instead of sugary drinks - While there is conflicting information on just how much water is needed for optimum health, the jury is definitely in on the importance of drinking water. Water is, of course, calorie free and helps flush our system. Drinking water about a half an hour before eating a meal also helps curb hunger and makes it less likely that you'll overeat.

Eat more fruits and veggies - Adding vegetables to some of your favorite dishes is a good way to get in some extra servings of veggies every day. Add chopped vegetables to soups, sandwiches, omelets, and of course try to eat more salads in general. Eating more fruit is simple when you throw together a fruit smoothie or add chopped fruit to plain yogurt or breakfast cereal. Of course fruit always makes a great snack by itself.

Choose healthy fats - At this point it's clear that trans fat should definitely be avoided, but since the body does need fat, choose healthy fat sources such as almonds, peanuts, walnuts, avocados, olives and olive oil.

Eating the "right" carbs - Choosing complex carbohydrates instead of refined carbs (think cookies and candy) not only helps us shed unwanted pounds, but also provides the body with much-needed energy and most complex carbs are high in fiber, which helps ward off hunger and overeating.