Fitness & Health tip

Revealed: 5 Surefire Diet Secrets!
By Diane Irons
eDiets Contributor

1. Before you dine out, get the facts. The nutritional facts, of course. It's pretty difficult to determine how many calories and fat grams are in a meal just by looking; although, you can obviously guesstimate it isn't good when generous gobs of cheese and sour cream are added. Ask the restaurant for a copy of the nutritional facts before you order. This will help you make healthier choices.

2. Make "on the side" a permanent part of your vocabulary. From sauces to dressings, the fat and calorie count on these seemingly harmless toppings can be diet killers. Don't let restaurants drown your meats, pastas and salads in unnecessary fats. Instead, order all the extras on the side. You'll have more control over how much fat and calories you take in.

3. Drink 64 ounces of water. Water, water, water. I can't say enough about how great water works as your beverage of choice. Water makes up 80 percent of your body composition. That should make it clear as to why you may not fire on all cylinders if you neglect your water intake. Keep a few bottles of cold water in your fridge so you can always grab one and take it with you.

4. Fill up on high-fiber, low-fat foods. Center your diet around high-fiber, low-fat foods. When you have a choice, opt for whole grains, whole-grain breads, cereals, low-fat dairy, lean protein and skinless poultry. Fiber-rich foods will fill you up without filling you out.

5. Pack a cooler. Planning is key when it comes to successful weight loss. Since hunger can strike wherever and whenever, keep a small cooler stocked with healthy choices close at hand. You'll be less likely to make unwise decisions. Best of all, bottled water, fresh fruit and cereal bars are safe snacks that won't put a dent in your diet endeavors.