Eating right takes practice. It is a learned behavior over many years and sometimes we need to let some old habits go relating to food and adopt healthier ones to lose weight.  Read below for a few ideas to get you moving in the right direction.

1. Make veggies your starch in place of some grain choices.  Veggies like beans, corn, and squash are complex carbs that gradually release glucose into the blood. They are also high in fiber and vitamins and minerals.

2. Shop Slowly.  Take the time to read labels and plan meals, and never go hungry.

3. Think Small, but Spectacular.  Make a small amount of something wonderful. Don’t leave an option for leftovers or second helpings.

4. Bag a Nutritious Snack.  Trail Mix works great for this. You don’t need a lot to make a filling snack. Try a tablespoon of nuts, dried blueberries, and ¼ cup whole grain cereal.

5. Forget Fancy.  Simple healthy meals are fast and nutritious without a lot of clean up.  Oatmeal with nuts and fruit for breakfast. Fish or chicken over salad for dinner.

6. Scrape by.  Use a plastic knife to scrape mayo or heavy sauce off your sandwich or burger when out to eat. Better yet ask for it to come on the side.

7. Go ahead and spend on pre-cut vegetables at the supermarket.  Sure, they cost more, but you are more likely to eat more.

8. Eat a snack. Same time everyday, something healthy that helps you to control your portion when meal time arrives.

9. Drink with your dominant hand. Always carry a low-calorie beverage with you at a party. You can’t graze as easily this way.

10. Send back the bread. A simple “No, thank you” does the trick. Less temptation at the table when dining out the better.

Simple modifications like these made to your diet will help you reach your goal weight. For more information about proven, safe weight loss programs in your area visit WeightLossNebraska.com.