1. EAT YOUR FRUITS AND VEGETABLES.
Fruits and vegetables are great for snacking. They can calm your craving for sweet or crunchy, plus they are good for you! Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. They can also help prevent diseases such as cancer. Try to get 5-9 servings daily!

2. KEEP MOVING.
Incorporate activity into your daily routine. Does this mean going to the gym for an hour each day? NO! Keep busy by taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walk instead of taking the bus, get up to change the TV station and do sit-ups and jumping jacks during TV commercials. Being more active throughout the day may help increase your metabolic rate. An increase in metabolic rate will help you burn more calories during normal daily activities.

3. GIVE YOUR FOOD THE ATTENTION IT DESERVES.
Take time during meals and truly taste every bite you eat. Eat slowly and have meal times be a time of relaxation and enjoyment. Recharge mentally while you refuel physically!

4. ADDRESS EMOTIONS.
Eating to soothe your stress is not the way to go. Try other ways to relax: talk with a friend, take a hot shower, go for a walk, meditate or do some yoga.

5. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS "NOW I'VE BLOWN IT COMPLETELY."
An indulgent treat or a day without exercising is OKAY. It is better to satisfy a craving than to be consumed by the thought of it. Treats are acceptable - remember that all foods can fit into your eating plan. The guideline for aerobic exercise is 3-5 times per week for 20-60 minutes. Taking a few days off throughout the week is okay!

6. TAKE THINGS SLOWLY.
The best way to lose weight and keep it off is to lose it slowly, by making lifestyle changes. Rapid weight loss may feel good in the short term, but usually that weight comes back - plus some. Focus on healthy living and feeling good versus losing weight!

Adapted from the American Institute for Cancer Research Newsletter. www.mckinley.uiuc.edu/Handouts/healthy_living.html