Weight loss is a challenge.  We all have our ups and downs.  I’ve experienced the joy and excitement of buying a cute new pair of jeans one size smaller and then a month later, felt the anguish and frustration of not fitting into them any longer. Those of us who struggle with weight loss have these kinds of experiences often as we move through our weight loss journey.  But I have found an unexpected and wonderful thing come out of my weight loss trials and tribulations.

OK, I’ve got to admit: I cheated on my diet plan yesterday. Not just a little- a big time cheat. I fell for the “just this one day” trap that sabotages so many of us who are trying to lose weight.  Worst of all, I didn’t enjoy it nearly as much as I thought I would.  I felt lethargic, bloated and uncomfortable.  Fortunately I’m just not used to eating so much anymore.  But, yesterday, I ate, and I ate, and I ate some more.  Chips?  Not officially on my healthy diet plan, but I ate them.  Portion control? Forget about it.  There was just so much food.  Fajitas, enchiladas, tortilla soup, you name it.  I had to try it all.  And as if that didn’t knock my weight loss plan off track enough, I decided that I would just “try” some of the desserts as well.  It was a diet disaster.  If you had a similar experience on 4^th, you’re not alone.

New research conducted by the US Department of Agriculture has recently revealed surprising news about a nut that many dieters avoid: the pistachio.  Understanding this new research, combined with fascinating work described as the “Pistachio Principle,” could help you drop unwanted pounds you may have accumulated during these past winter months.  Read on to determine if snacking on the delicious pistachio can help you achieve your health and wellness goals!

Losing weight is never easy.  Losing each pound, it seems, comes with its own challenges.  As we lose weight we face the inevitable plateaus and ups and downs that come with the territory.  With all the challenges we face in reaching our weight loss goals it isn’t always easy to hold onto a good attitude.  But avoiding negativity and keeping a positive outlook can help you reach your weight loss goal more quickly.

So you’ve committed to losing weight by following a healthy diet plan.  You’ve stocked your refrigerator and pantry with nutritious foods and snacks.  You understand that sugar and candy won’t help you lose weight and you know how important protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals are to a healthy weight loss program.  You’ve really done your homework on your calorie intake and you have decided to lose weight.  Applaud yourself.  These preparations are extremely important to your success.  But equally important are the psychological preparations you must do in order to change your lifestyle.  Here are five things you should do to help you lose weight successfully.