Aim: Aim for slow weight loss. Crash diets can make you lose six kg sin a month but at the end of the year you will end up with your original weight!

Breathing: When we exercise we breathe in more oxygen. This helps in burning more fat since more energy is consumed. Do deep breathing every day for 10-15 minutes.

Curtail: Cut down on too many chocolates, chips etc.

Don’t: Don’t go on a crash diet. You’ll end up suffering from headaches, nausea, vomiting and muscle cramps at the end of three days.

Exercise: Stop finding excuses for not exercising. Set aside at least 30 minutes a day for a brisk walk, dance or swim.

Fast: Observe a fast at least once a week. This is a good way to detoxify your body. Stay away from sabudana, ground nuts and clips when your are fasting. Also, do not overload yourself with excess food prior to your fast.

Group activities: No, not kitty parties but constructive group activities like aerobics, long walks or sports.

Health: If you feel you gain weight suddenly despite leading an active life and having a balanced meal, seek medical help. You could be suffering from hypothyroidism or depression.

Imaginations: Use your own imagination to cook low-calorie foods which are tasty and satisfying. Eg: Mamura + cucumber + tomatoes + onion + lemon (tastes like bhelpuri and is low in calories)

Juices: Vegetable juices are a good way to lose weight and also detoxify your body.

Kitchen: Do not spend too much time in the kitchen, you could end up cooking an extra dish for dinner which is not required.

Leftovers: Say no to leftover food in kitchen

Music: Listen to music for half an hour a day. You may end up dancing to it too, which burns calories.

No: Learn to say no to food if you are not hungry.

Obsession: Don’t get obsessed with your weight. It will lead to depression and consequently comfort eating.

Protein: Make sure you consume enough proteins in your diet. They keep up your muscle tone and give you the sense of fullness when you eat.

Quit: Quit smoking and alcohol.

Re-tune: Retune your mind and body by positive thinking because all have to do is just lose 1 kg/month.

Salt and sugar: Have salt and sugar in moderation.

Treats: Treat yourself occasionally to ice cream or chips.

Up: Take the stairs instead of the lift at home or office.

Variety: Try to have a variety of foods in your diet.

Water: Drink at least three liters of water day in summer. It flushes out body toxins. Having a glass of water 30 minutes before your meals also reduces your hunger.

X-cuse: Stay away from excuses to eat or exercises.

Yoga: It not only helps in losing weight but also maintains a balance of body mind and spirits.

Z: Zap it up.

Disclaimer – The views and opinions mentioned here are the writers’ own thoughts or based on the talks held with some of the professionals of respective fields. Never consider the tips or ideas mentioned on Stay Young & Healthy as a substitute for physician’s advice. At Stay Young & Healthy, we strongly advise you to consult your doctor for more details.