Having been on the weight loss journey for over a year and a half now, losing 100 lbs myself, and keeping it off for 5 months, I want to let others know some tips on what to include in a healthy diet.

The first thing I did was change the way I eat. A diet rich in fresh vegetables, fresh fruit, whole wheat products, like wheat bread, crackers, brown rice. I emphasize fresh here, as fresh produce is the best and most tasteful. Once you start eating only fresh fruits and vegetables, you will not want to eat canned.Stay away from processed foods as much as you can. They will keep the weight on you, fresh is always better. Shop along the outer walls of the grocery, where most fresh products are located.

I included foods in my diet that are high in fiber, I always look for foods rich in fiber. Not only fresh vegetables, but also English muffins, breads, foods that have extra fiber in them. Look for the word “fiber” on the label. Learn to read labels, because some things can be hidden. Remember that calories listed are per serving, not per the whole container. The less ingredients listed, the better it will be for you in most cases. One great suggestion, get rid of soda pop in your diet. I went cold turkey on the stuff, and drank only water, 1 cup of coffee a day, soy milk on my bran cereal in the morning. This is what I stuck to for the year it took me to lose the weight I needed to. I still drink lots of water, once in awhile I will have a diet soda pop, but not every day. My motto is everything in moderation. I found its okay to treat yourself once in awhile with a snack or some special treat you like, just not an every day occurrence. I continue to eat healthy, it is a life style for me now. I have become accustomed to eating this way, and now it is natural for me. Eating a healthy diet is a choice you need to make for your life, and the ones who love you!