20 pounds in 3 months

[canavan]

I'm looking to slim down in time for the summer and need to lose about twenty pounds of body fat. I've started up a gym membership and have an active routine of cardio about 3 times a week, combined with some weightlifting. The pitfall is going for good nutrition, I need some help with this. I know the basic principles but tend to get tripped up by snack foods. Any advice?

[Patti]

Try writing down what you eat each day and analyze it. I was able to pick out some downfalls in my diet by doing this. Also paying attention to portions make a big difference.

[GI Jane]

It sounds like you are on the right track. Keeping record of your eating habits, although it sounds annoying, is a great idea and not all that difficult. Most of the time we eat the same foods and at the same places, so after keeping tabs for a few weeks, you will be surprised to find how easy it is.

Some immediate and profound changes you can make right away are:
• Stop drinking soda.
• Eat breakfast. If you are eating breakfast, replace cereals or toast with oatmeal.
• Eat plenty of healthy snacks throughout the day (fruit, nuts, etc.).
• Educate yourself. Find out what you should be eating, and slowly replace poor food choices with better alternatives.

[Dee1]

The very best of luck to you, with determination and will power you can do it, I am currently trying to get back to my pre pregnancy weight so I understand what you are going through.

[Tigger]

Good luck from me, too. This stuff is never easy, but just take it one day at a time and you'll be there before you know it.

[antkmom]

It sounds like you know what you need to do and are doing it as far as the exercise. YOu can still have snacks, but just choose healthy versions. Make up a fruit salad or eat yogurt rather than ice cream.

Drink lots of water.
Writing down everything you eat is great. It allows you to see what you are eating that you shouldn't.