Who among us can truly say that they are as lean and toned as they ever want to be? Most people, even the fitness buffs, are in a constant fluctuation between their ideal body and a body that is not quite ideal. So how do we sway this struggle in our favor? Quite often the difference between the body that you have today and the body that you wish you had is made up of simple daily decisions.

• Eating small meals every 2-3 waking hours will increase your metabolism and reduce fat storage. Make sure that these are healthy meals containing protein, carbohydrates and fat.

• The easiest way to effortlessly lose weight is to not eat 3 hours before bed. It has been proven that not eating 3 hours before bed reduces fat storage throughout the night.

• Eating a balanced diet is key in maintaining a healthy body weight. The American council on Exercise suggests that this balance break down into 12-20% protein, 55-65% carbohydrates, and 25-30% fat.

• Desserts should be eaten sparingly ar an average of no more than 2 each week. If you have an insatiable sweet tooth, try munching on unsweetened dried fruit, or sugar free Jell-O.

• Eat a small meal and wait 20 minutes before deciding if you need more food. This will give your stomach and brain time to communicate. If have eaten enough food, your brain will alert your body and you will find that you don’t desire anything more. If you are still hungry after this period, eat a small amount more and wait another 20 minutes.

• Fat free foods, when eaten in excess, will still be stored as fat! Fat free cookies and crackers are made up of a whole lot of sugar! Yes, the secret is out! Sugar is just as fattening of a substance than fat itself, when eaten in excess.

Note: Remember that healthy weight loss takes time, so be patient! And make an effort towards your goal everyday and don’t get discouraged!