Keeping Your Healthy Resolutions for 2012

Each year people make New Year's resolutions. The more common resolutions seem to be related to health -- weight loss, getting in shape, and eating better. Despite our best effort, many times these resolutions are not kept. The best way to keep a resolution is to make it realistic and keep it simple.

Here are some strategies that may help you keep your goals for 2012!

You WANT to lose the weight!
Most people get frustrated when they aren’t losing the weight and they stop trying. Instead of quitting, you should think in smaller steps to reach several manageable goals:

1. Determine how you plan to lose the weight. Watching portion control, cutting back on total calorie intake, or exercising more to burn off extra calories are all small steps that can get your to your bigger goal.
2. Keep track of your progress so that you can see how you are doing.
3. Try to avoid using food as a reward especially if you are resolving to lose weight. Reward yourself instead with a new book, going to the movies, etc.

Even small changes to your daily routine can make a difference!
Switching from one cup of whole milk (8 gms fat 150 calories) to 1% milk (2.5gm fat and 110 calories) can make a difference of 280 calories a week -- a decrease of 1,120 calories a month!

Replacing one 12 oz. can of regular soda with water each day can cut back your intake by 145-155 calories each day, or 1,015-1,085 calories each week. This small change can make a really big difference over time!

Choose an exercise you enjoy!
If you start out running, but you hate running, you will not stick with it! Start small and work your way up. Even something as small as taking the stairs instead of the elevator once a day makes a difference. There are also many great exercise classes available on campus. Ask a friend to join you because the buddy system can really help keep both of you motivated and on track to your goals!

You don’t have to want to lose weight to eat healthier!
Again, making small, reasonable changes is a great way to start eating healthier. For example you could set out to include a piece of fruit with your breakfast each day. Once you have accomplished this goal you can then set out to add an additional vegetable with dinner a few nights a week until you work your way to each night.

Trying to revamp your overall diet or begin an intense exercise program can be overwhelming. By creating a program with smaller and more attainable goals you will be able to feel a sense of accomplishment every few weeks versus months. This will keep you motivated towards your ultimate goal!

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Nutritionist Christine Clark works with Dining Services to provide you with tips and techniques to stay healthy during your time at Northeastern. If you have any further questions about this topic or are looking for more information about any other nutrition or diet topic, such as food allergies or sports nutrition, please contact her at christine.clark2@compass-usa.com.