Healthy Weight - It's Not a Diet, It's a Lifestyle

Losing weight takes more than desire. It takes commitment and a well-thought-out plan. Here's a step-by-step guide to getting started from the CDC.

Not So Sweet

It may be that artificial sweetners are not helpful:

• People who get used to the very sweet taste of these products find that the normal flavor of fruits and vegetables just isn't as appealing.
• They may also feel hungrier after having foods and drinks containing artificial sweeteners. As a result, people may take in more calories afterward.
• And artificial sweeteners may encourage the body to develop new fat cells

See this MedlinePlus article for details of the study.

Snack Attack!: MedlinePlus Health News Video

Snack Attack!: MedlinePlus Health News Video

Sometimes snacking will actually help with your weight control. The time of day you snack could be important. See this MedlinePlus video for details.

If you're keeping an eye on your weight, the next time you reach for a snack no matter the time of day be sure that:

• It doesn't have too many calories. 100 calories is a reasonable limit.
• And it should offer good stuff that you need, like vitamins and fiber. Fresh fruit, baby carrots, and air-popped popcorn are good options.

Diabetes Education & Support Group Meetings

DeAnn Zimmer, OTR/L will be presenting easy exercises and New Year's resolution worksheets.  This meeting will be on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 at Fairview University Medical Center Mesabi in the Hull Rust Rooms.

Call 218-262-4881 for time and more information.

Quit Smoking

"Keep working at it" could be key to success, studies suggest.  Quiting is never easy but this MedlinePlus HealthDay article gives hope to all who want to try.  Don't give up.