I have tried many fad diets without permanent weight loss. How can I make healthier food choices so that I can achieve a healthier weight?

There are many fad diets on the market promising quick solutions to weight loss and increasing your energy.  However, these solutions can be quite costly, restrictive, and even harmful in some cases.  You want to be able to enjoy a variety of foods while also achieving a healthy weight and body. Your diet is only one part of living a healthier lifestyle. The choices you make today can affect your health tomorrow.

Instead of resorting to fad diets for the perfect solution, try the following:

• Start each day with a healthy breakfast
• Eat a variety of choices from each of the four food groups found in Canada’s Food Guide
• Avoid labeling food as good or bad; instead enjoy a variety of foods in moderation
• Eat smaller portion sizes
• Select foods that are baked, broiled, or roasted – avoid eating foods that are fried
• Choose light salad dressing or a vinaigrette for your salad
• Increase your intake of whole grain breads and cereals
• Increase the amount of fruit and vegetable in your diet
• Eat fruit or sorbet for dessert
• Limit your intake of salt, alcohol, and caffeine
• Wait 20 minutes before getting a second helping
• Be mindful of the choices you make when selecting night time snacks
• Engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity everyday
• Keep track of the foods that you eat and the activity you participate in

By making healthy choices, you will lead a healthier lifestyle that provides permanent rewards of a healthy weight, body and mind.

For more information about healthy eating or for available programs and services, contact Health Link Alberta where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call 1-866-408-LINK (5465) or 780-408-LINK (Edmonton area) or 403-943-LINK (Calgary area).