Daily Dish
Four Steps to a Healthy Weight
For most of us, the desire to lose weight is easy. What can prove more difficult is how to go about it. Enter the South Beach Diet, a flexible, weight-healthy plan that teaches you sound nutrition principles, such as choosing the right fats (like those from nuts, oily fish, and extra-virgin olive oil), the right carbs (whole-grain breads and pastas, colorful veggies, high-fiber fruits, and hearty beans), lean proteins, and low-fat dairy foods.

Combined with at least 30 minutes of cardiovascular activity most days of the week (something as simple as walking fits this bill) — as well as a balanced strength-training and stretching program, such as the core-strengthening routines offered on SouthBeachDiet.com — the South Beach Diet is doctor-designed to help you boost your health while you lose weight. Here are four steps that will put you on the path to reaching your healthy weight:

1. Give your kitchen a makeover. Determine which foods should be kept and which should be thrown away. For instance, keep veggies, nuts, lean proteins, and South Beach Diet-approved desserts; toss white bread, pasta, and rice (store whole-grain versions of these foods to use in Phase 2). While you're at it, make adjustments to your shopping list to ensure that your favorite South Beach Diet-friendly foods find their way into your cart — and your kitchen! You can find tips for both tasks on SouthBeachDiet.com.

2. Incorporate exercise. Physical activity is a key part of the South Beach Diet lifestyle. Dr. Agatston recommends a minimum of 30 minutes of cardiovascular activity most days of the week, paired with a strength-training and stretching program. When it comes to strength training, Dr. Agatston is a fan of core exercises — moves designed to target the muscles of the trunk of your body (your abdomen, lower back, pelvis, and hips). Since a stronger core helps keep you free of injuries, you're more likely to stay active — and healthy — throughout your life. The South Beach Diet Fitness Club offers hundreds of core moves, along with an easy-to-follow walking program, and gentle preparation exercises. Sign up for SouthBeachDiet.com today to take advantage of all our offerings.

3. Exercise safely and realistically. No matter which activity you choose, beginners should start — and progress — slowly to prevent injury. Though physical activity is both safe and recommended for most adults, if you're starting an exercise program for the first time, be sure to consult with your physician. Also, be realistic when developing your exercise schedule — there will be days when you can't get to the gym or don't feel physically up to par. Don't be too hard on yourself if you miss a workout — just get back to your routine as soon as you can. Finally, remember that any amount of exercise is better than none at all, so if you don't have time to squeeze in an entire workout, don't let that deter you from getting some activity.

4. Seek support. Look to your friends and family for encouragement. They may want to join you on your path to wellness, but even if they aren't ready to make positive lifestyle changes, they can offer inspiration and motivation. You can also take advantage of some of the great motivational features of SouthBeachDiet.com, such as locating a like-minded member through our Beach Buddy program, or connecting with other members on the Message Boards to swap tips and share recipes.
Go to: www.southbeachdiet.com for more information.

DANIELLE'S COMMENTS: Like I have said previously. There are no short-cuts. You must incorporate healthy nutrition, cardiovascular activity and a strength training program. Consistency is the key to your success. You cannot expect your weight-loss goals doing one thing or the other, half of the time. It has to be a daily, life-time approach! Alternative, stay uncomfortable and unhealthy. YOU make the choice, it's your body.