Diet Secrets

Diet Secrets

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By Heather Reese

Two out of three American adults are overweight. We gain an average 20 pounds between the ages of 25 and 55. But some people are able to take the weight off and keep it off. And then there are the lucky folks who never seem to gain a pound. Consumer Reports surveyed 21,000 of its readers to find their secrets.

It turns out that people who've always been thin usually aren't sitting around eating potato chips. Only 3 percent of the thin people surveyed said they ate whatever they pleased and never exercised.

As for the successful dieters, most lost the weight without the help of a diet program, diet pills, or a medical treatment. Their strategies were similar to those of the naturally thin:

--Limiting portion size

--Eating lots of fruits and vegetables

--Opting for whole-wheat breads and other whole grains rather than white flour

--Limiting fat

--Exercise. While vigorous exercise is particularly effective, Consumer Reports' survey showed that any physical activity is helpful

Consumer Reports' survey also found those who weigh less eat out less—so eating home-cooked meals can be a good strategy—and can save you money, too. Consumer Reports has come up with tips for cooking healthy meals on a budget. You can find them at: www.consumerreports.org/cro/food/diet-nutrition/diets/dieting/downturn-diet/dieting-on-a-budget-downturn-diet.htm.
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