Practice New Year’s Resolutions Now

This month offers so many temptations that it is easy to overeat and gain weight. Get a jump start on the new year by practicing healthy habits this month.

•  Pay attention to portion size. One helpful trick is to use a small salad plate instead of a dinner plate. It can't hold as much food but it still looks full.
•  Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, or take a psyllium fiber supplement. Aim for 25 to 35 grams of fiber daily. This chart can help you keep track.
•  Go easy on sweets, like pastries, candies, pies and ice cream. Don't try to eliminate them totally, because experts say that only worsens the cravings. Instead, have one, but keep to that limit.
•  Watch alcohol intake. One or two drinks a day is generally acceptable. Alternatively, switch to plain water, hot tea, club soda, or a fruit juice/club soda combination.
• Continue to exercise. Make time to walk, run, cross-country ski, swim, or work out for 30 minutes a day.

You know the saying: Practice Makes Perfect. If you start on your New Year's resolutions in December, you will carry them over into January and make them a healthy habit throughout 2010.