How to Cheat on Your Diet

Many of us believe that a weight loss diet means quitting the fattening foods we desire. No desserts, no carbs, no sauces, no wine, no fun!  However, this sort of weight loss strategy can actually trigger more cravings, calories, fixating on prohibited foods and goals dumped long before their time. The truth is that you can lose weight and eat cake, too -- as long as you "cheat" on your diet the functional way.

1.  Accept your binge foods. Your longing for comfort food isn’t going anywhere. And as we all know, when you tell people they can't do something -- they're going to want to do it even more.

2.  Eat more fulfilling nutrients. Fill up your regime with foods that extend the distance -- those with lean protein and fiber. Add whole grains, boiled eggs, a variety of fruits and vegetables, soups, seafood, lean meats, and low fat dairy because these foods fill up the stomach and help repress your appetite. For additional craving supervision, plan healthy snacks so that you don't have to go for long periods without eating.

3. Run for flavor and enjoy it with all your senses. When you indulge in to your meal, serve it on a pretty dish with a colorful garnish so you can appreciate its eye appeal. Eat your meals and snacks slowly by taking small bites so you can enjoy the taste and have a satisfying and mindful meal experience. Being more aware of portion control and eating slowly can help you get more satisfaction from your food.

4. Have a backup plan. If you happen to have a sweet tooth and you are out, ask to see the dessert menu first. This way, you can budget your money and calories for what matters most to you. Knowing where you're really headed will make it easier to skip the heavier desserts into lighter yet savory ones.

5. Consume only what you love. If it's bad for “your diet” it had better be good. So instead of grabbing a whole bag of “LITE” cookies with your coffee -- and distractedly downing a doughy 300 calories -- splurge on something worth savoring, like a small, perfect wedge of cake.

6. Do it yourself. Can't enjoy your morning coffee without a muffin? Mix up your own batch, slipping in goodies like oats, nuts, and whole-grain flour. Love piping hot pizza? Try making it yourself, using intensely flavored toppings like goat cheese, smoked salmon, and fresh herbs. This way you can relish your comfort food that is much lighter and satisfying while losing those pounds.

7. Get away from the screen. How many times have you eaten lunch in front of the TV and then realized you didn't taste a bite? That's why it's so important to savor every bite without any distractions around.

8. Eat whatever you like but in small portions. You can have it all, just not all in one day. No food is off-limits as long as you keep your portions reasonable.

9. Compromise. It’s an empowering tool. Had a slight heavy lunch? Compromise at dinner and make it lighter. Do not skip meals. Compromise some heavy ingredients with lighter and healthier versions and I guarantee you will not be missing your old habits.

10. Make small modifications. Are you passionate for a dessert? Enjoy every mouthful -- but top it off with a walk around the block afterward. Addicted to a pizza slice and a cola for your lunch? Relish every bite -- but enjoy them once a week instead of five. Small steps can add up to big results, so find the changes that work best for you.

11. Don't let a small slip develop into a slide.  It is almost impossible to be perfect when it comes to dieting. Everybody slips; eventually we are all human. It’s fine as long as you don't let one slip turn into a long slide. Whenever you slip up, take note of it; try to learn from it.

And remember, tomorrow is a brand new day, just get back on track!