5 Diet Tricks to Get Bathing Suit Ready!

1) Cut Back on Eating Out and Taking Out

Perhaps it's a work luncheon, or a friend's birthday, or you're just so exhausted after work you can't imagine lifting another finger, except to dial Hong Kong Palace for delivery of course. Sometimes it just can't be helped, we get it. But, the reality is this: cutting back on eating out and taking out can potentially cut your intake of calories, fats and carbs, in half.  Experts say, if it's a habit you make more than 5 times per week, try cutting back to 1 time per week, and order a salad with a lean protein, instead of a carb-laden meal.

2) Reach for the Pepper, Not the Salt

It's easier to reach your goal weight when you cut back on salt, which increases water retention and extra pounds.  Plus, pepper - salts best buddy - has a spicy kick and is believed to stimulate metabolism. Another tip: avoid the snack aisle and its plethora of tempting salty nibbles when you're shopping. Stick to the outer aisles of any grocery store and sodium-filled foods will not be as abundant.

3) Exercise While Watching TV

Don't just sit there!!!  Get up and do some jumping jacks, or march in place while you're watching your favorite shows - especially during the commercials.  Crunches on the floor, or leg lifts are also a good alternative to lying on the couch. Moving in general, instead of being motionless, can also keep mindless munching to a minimum as well, says experts.

4) Get Nutty!

Whether you donate them to a local charity, or portion them off to the neighbors, try to rid yourself of high calorie foods that are lurking in your pantry.  Then replace them with lower calorie snacks and/or more heart healthy ones like nuts. In particular, almonds, walnuts, pistachios or unsalted sunflower seeds are ideal crunchy munchies that make for sound snacks.

5) Pack Your Lunch 

Nutritionists say there are several positives to brown-bagging it. Not only can you save money when you pack your own lunch, but you also know what ingredients are actually going into your meals - and best of all, you can better control your portions.  Another added plus, once you're done eating your lunch at your desk or in the break room, you can use the rest of your hour to go walking. Getting at least 20 minutes of cardio keep your circulation going is a good thing, especially if you sit frequently for work.