10 Weeks to 10lbs Lighter Week 7 - No Liquid Calories

Here are the goals to healthy living and slow weight loss we’ve set thus far:

• Write down everything you eat and drink and give it to a friend each week.
• Drink 60oz water daily.
• Eat half-sized meals every 2-3 hours.
• Do 4 aerobic workouts this week (30+ minutes based on your abilities)
• Stop eating or drinking (anything caloric) at least 2 hours before going to bed.
• Plan your meals and snacks ahead of time.
• Eat plenty of high fiber foods such as whole wheat cereal, vegetables, fruits, lentils and beans.
  

Americans consume a tremendous number of calories in the form of liquids. Juice, fancy coffee drinks, smoothies, soda pop, wine & beer contribute to our waistlines. Furthermore, we gain little benefit in terms of vitamins, minerals or fiber from drinking them. For weight loss, try eliminating liquid calories from your diet this week.

Watch out for these waist-expander beverages:

8oz fruit juice – 110 calories
20oz soda pop – 255 calories
Starbucks grande vanilla bean frappuccino – 470 calories
Coffee cream(er) – 30-50 calories each tablespoon
12oz beer – 167 calories
8oz wine – 170 calories
7oz martini - 504 calories

As with most nutrition topics, there is an exception to this rule. Milk and/or soymilk provide essential calcium and vitamin D that we do not get in other foods. Most people should consume 2-3 cups (soy)milk/day to meet their calcium requirements.

Have a great week. Happy losing!