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Health & Fitness

Time to Lose Weight? Act Like a Third Grader

Need help in sticking to your plan to lose weight this year? You need a workable strategy. So, maybe it's time to think like a grade schooler and catch some healthy habits.

I wish I had a nickel for everyone who has made a New Year’s Resolution to lose weight and get healthier in 2012. Then I wish I had a dime for everyone who will give up on their resolution before January is over. I’ll be rich by Valentine’s Day.

If you really want to stick to your plan this year, you need a workable strategy. So, maybe it’s time to think like a grade schooler and catch some healthy habits.

For example, can you learn to love a snack of celery instead of soda and cookies? Maybe so, if you try it topped with low-fat cream cheese and raisins, a treat known to kids as Ants on a Log. Cubes of cheese and cut-up fruit speared on toothpicks become Dynamite Sticks. Graham crackers, low-fat cottage cheese, raisins and a touch of cinnamon combine to create Cracker Delight.

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Breaking old habits, such as automatically reaching for the same sweet snack foods, is tough.  Most of us are reluctant to change, especially if it means giving up the things we love to eat. So the key to keeping your New Year’s resolution is to make healthy foods fun by combining different tastes and giving snacks unusual names.

Kids learn that it’s all about learning the differences among WHOA, SLOW and GO foods. WHOA foods are those that contain a lot of salt, unhealthy fats or added sugars and should be avoided. SLOW foods are somewhat healthier and may include lower fat milks, white bread and rice, pancakes, and fruits canned in light syrup. Best of all are GO foods that contain very little salt, unhealthy fats or added sugars—sometimes none at all. Examples of GO foods include fresh fruits and vegetables, foods made with whole grains, broiled fish, baked chicken and lean meats. 

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If each of us asked ourselves whether we are looking at a Whoa, Slow or Go food before we take a bite, odds are we’ll be more selective in what we eat. That’s the first step to a healthier lifestyle. We’ve shown that it works for both kids and adults all over the country.

CATCH Healthy Habits is sponsored by the , which partners with local schools, youth clubs and other organizations to bring the program to area children. The program connects adult volunteer ages 50-plus with children in kindergarten through the fifth grade to encourage healthier eating and physical activity. Weekly one-hour sessions include active games, healthy snacks and education about food choices that will help anyone reach their goals. You can learn more at www.oasisnetorg, or watch this video about CATCH Healthy Habits.

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