6 Easy Steps to Help You Stick to Your Diet

Every year, 'Sticking to your Diet' and 'Reducing Weight' are the most popular resolutions made by people across the world. But as the days move on, we either forget about them or get so overwhelmed that we just give up. And it is not just about resolutions. Many of us are on this constant battle against what we perceive as 'fatty but delicious food'. If only there was a magic wand that made everything easier. Made the extra flab tone up, regardless of what we ate.Alas, magic doesn't exist in the real world. And definitely not when you get onto that weighing scale. It takes a lot of effort and will power to stick to one's diet and fitness plan. However, a little help goes a long way.  
Expert GuideWe spoke to Dr. Rupali Datta, Chief Clinical Nutritionist at Fortis-Escorts Hospital, to get expert tips that are easy to follow. Here are some simple ways of not tying yourself into a knot and dealing with this seemingly uphill task in a manner that makes it achievable.1. Eat a Good BreakfastMake sure you take adequate carbs and proteins to start the day. Make a healthy meal out of ready-to-eat cereals by adding nuts and dry fruits. You may also add oats and seeds to a yogurt based smoothie. Take some time out and sit and enjoy your breakfast before you rush into the day. If time is short, you can also consume the smoothie in your car or on the go.2. Switch to Whole GrainsReplace refined grain products with traditional whole wheat, bajra, corn, ragi, etc. They contribute to your daily fiber intake which helps you stay full for longer and they also add vitamins and minerals to your diet. Avoid 'maida' or refined flour at all costs.3. Proteins Are the StarProteins take longer to digest and be absorbed by the body, hence they provide you energy for longer. Eat foods rich in dals, legumes, milk, paneer, curd, soy and lean meats like egg whites, chicken and fish.  
4. Count the Liquid CaloriesYou may be watching what you're eating but completely forget that those endless cups of coffee are not helping your diet plan. Drink up on fresh juices like fresh lemon water and coconut water which have negligible sugar content. Stay away from the sweetened tea and coffee. Excess of either may keep you going for a while, but you'll be extremely low on energy soon. You could try healthier drinks like Green Tea, Chamomile Tea, etc. Healthy snacking such as nuts, seeds, fruits and salads is the way to go.5. Simplifying ExerciseGet a pedometer and clock in 10,000 steps /day. Do short 15 minutes work outs twice a day, these may fit into your schedule better than one 30 minute session. Be creative with your workout, you can join salsa classes or you could put on some Bollywood music and dance your heart out. On weekends, you could participate in interesting group activities like cycling, hiking or yoga. Be flexible with your workout style and schedule and give yourself a day or two off when you feel like it.6. Craving for SweetsReach for a piece of dark chocolate once in a while. Studies have shown that the antioxidant content of Dark chocolate is beneficial for health. Cheat days are very essential, to make sure you don't fall off the diet wagon. 3 meals anytime in the week or 1 day in the week- allow yourself to indulge if you're craving something sinful. Crash diets, after all, are never a good idea. To make them sustainable, you must find a way to enjoy what you eat.