Don't give up on the new you!

09 Jan 2012 11:28 AM

We began 2012 with the best of intentions, vowing to ditch our bad habits for good.

But already the last traces of willpower are fading away as today is the day most people will give up their New Year's resolutions - just nine days after they were made.

Three-quarters of 3,000 British adults surveyed admitted they were no longer confident they would stick to their promises for the rest of the month.
 

The biggest resolution of 2012 was to lose weight, however a survey revealed that Six out of ten of us will give up and revert to our usual eating habits after just six days of healthy eating.

This blog will aim to give you the enthusiasm and encouragement to help you fully commit to your New Year’s resolution.

Here are five quick tips to help you succeed at your diet:

1. Be honest with your food diary

I’m sure many of you have created a food diary at the beginning of your diet, however, how many of you have been honest with your recordings? Keep up the good work; you are only cheating yourself by using false recordings.

1. Smaller food portions

Now that you are watching your calorie intake, make sure you match this with portion size. Just because you are eating low fat foods does not mean you can have double the amount. Don’t allow portion sizes to increase as you work your way through the month.

1. Make your GP your diet partner

It’s advised that you seek advice from your doctor before going on any weight loss programme; therefore, why not make them your diet partner. Book regular check-ups with them in order to record your progress and make sure you are not putting your health at risk. At times of despair, when you think you are struggling to keep up the good work make an appointment with your GP who can help you stay on track.

1. Stop buying junk food

Now many of you will have ruled out buying junk food and have made it a special treat. There is nothing wrong with ordering your favourite takeaway once a month! However, moderation is the key. Do not let New Year’s discounts and offers sway you!

1. Take up more exercise

Many of you may have taken up regular exercise. This could mean going for walks or joining a local sports club. Now is the time to start increasing the pressure. As you become fitter your body will be able to cope with more work, this will not only improve your fitness but speed up the dieting process. Keep the exercises fun otherwise you will never keep it up.  

Keep these five points in mind and you could make your 2012 New Year’s resolution count!