COMMENTARY >> Commentary: Fizzlin’ New Year’s resolution solutions

By Jeffrey Vaughn

19th Medical Group health promotion chief

Every New Year brings with it a resolution to better oneself. Below are a few for keeping those New Year’s resolutions. 

1. Commit! Consistency is the key for losing weight and keeping it off. You can start with made up food rules like 30 days of no bread or pasta and add new rules as you’re ready for a new challenge.

2. Don’t drink your calories. Drink plenty of water or other sugar-free beverages, like unsweetened tea or black coffee. Need new ideas to drink more water? Add fresh mint and a few chopped strawberries to the bottom of your water pitcher, or slices of fresh lemon and ginger root. Say “no” to sugary beverages like soda and juice.

3. Add two or three servings of vegetables to every meal. Stick with brightly colored non-starchy veggies. These veggies are naturally low calorie, low carb, low fat, low sodium and high fiber to help you fill up without eating too many calories.

4. Still hungry? Wait 20 minutes before having another helping at meal times. This extra time gives your body time to recognize if you are satisfied. If you are still hungry, start with a serving of veggies (at least a fist size portion) or a serving of healthy fat (like a closed handful of nuts, or a thumb tip of peanut butter or real butter). True hunger is a gradual sensation which grows with time and is open to a variety of food options. (Note: Cravings are not true hunger cues. They are sudden and for a specific foods. Contact the health promotions dietitian for more strategies if you are struggling with managing cravings.)

5. Bring your lunch to work. Meals are often too large in portion and loaded with hidden calories from unknown additives or sugars. Take control of what’s on your plate.

6.  Is it worth it? Take one bite and ask yourself, “Is this less healthy food worth it?” If it’s not tasty at all, stop eating it and don’t waste your calories on another bite of junk you don’t even really like. Save your splurge for foods you truly enjoy, and on something you will slow down and savor.

Look for “Little Rock AFB HAWC” on www.facebook.com for more resolution tips. For even more tips on making or maintaining goals, visit www.littlerock.af.mil/comprehensiveairmanfitness.