Archive for May, 2008

6 Weight Loss Tips for Family and Food!

Saturday, May 10th, 2008

Only one in the family on a diet? No problem!

If you’re the only one in your family trying to lose weight on NutriSystem, making this work is easier than you might think. Just by making these six easy changes, you can successfully integrate your NutriSystem® program into your family’s life and you’ll be surprised at the ripple effect it can have!

  1. Discuss your intentions. This is a great idea, whether your family consists of you and your spouse or you and a houseful of kids. Let everyone know what you’re doing and why. Explain to them that you want to lose weight and that you’re making some choices now that will help you stay healthier.
  2. Ask for support. After you’ve made your family aware of what you’re doing, do not hesitate to ask them for help if you need it. Let them chip in and help you make a salad for dinner. They can even help you pick out fruits and veggies!
  3. Do some reorganizing. This is an especially important step. You will want to keep any tempting foods out of your reach. If you are surrounded by people who enjoy snacks like potato chips or cookies, keeping those things completely out of the house is the most ideal option. But that can be difficult in a family. At least consider designating a cabinet just for other people’s foods. Make it an off-limits place for you. Then do the same kind of thing with the frozen or refrigerated items.
  4. Coordinate the meals. NutriSystem makes this really easy. If Friday is family pizza night, there is no need to even shift this tradition. Just serve everyone their favorite pizza, and you can enjoy your NutriSystem® pizza with your own individualized toppings, like sauteed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes. Whatever your family is having, chances are there is a NutriSystem equivalent you can have along with everyone elses including Sunday morning pancakes!
  5. Share the principles you’re learning. As you learn more ways to eat healthier, you can begin to share those ways with your family. Help them be more mindful of portion sizes, talk to them about eating meals and snacks spaced through the day, and let them know the importance of eating fruits and vegetables. Another thing that can help everyone is starting a family exercise program, whether it is a weekend bike ride or an evening walk.
  6. Share your progress. As you begin losing weight, make sure you let everyone around you know about your accomplishment. Be proud and share your happiness! That way, as you become a role model, your loved ones will be there as your biggest cheerleaders.