Fad diets and terrible advice from friends and gym buddies has consumed the health and diet market. The benefits of a healthy lifestyle are widely known, but sorting through all the scams and fads can be quite a daunting task. And unfortunately scares people away from even trying to lead a healthy lifestyle.

But, I’m going to let you in on a little secret. Forget about those fad diets and forget about what you co-workers tell you about health and follow these important steps to turn your life around live healthy and happy!

Fruits/Vegetables – The majority of Americans fail to get their MyPyramid recommended amounts of fruits and veggies per day. Actually you there’s a good chance that you will need to double the amount you are currently eating. Luckily, there are some easy ways to get more fruits and veggies in your diet. Fruit and veggie smoothies are an excellent and tasty way to get more in. And it’s easy to sneak them into casseroles, soups and lasagna’s,as well..

Whole Foods – Stay away from processed foods such as crackers, chips, cookies, etc by making the bulk of your diet consist of whole, natural foods. They will not only pass on more nutrients but the will fill you up and keep you feeling full for longer.

Calorie Control – If you are looking to maintain your current weight or even lose a few pounds then what matters most is calories. In order to lose those pounds you must burn more calories in a day than you take in by following a well constructed low calorie diet plan and regularly exercise.

Exercise – Combining a healthy diet with physical activity is the best way to live a healthy life and control weight. Aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day and if exercising just isn’t your thing try to sneak it in by taking the dog or the kids for a walk, for example.

For even more health and dieting tips check out Calorie Control and live the healthiest life possible!