Difference between revisions of "Eat Healthy and Exercise"

Kipkis (Kipkis | contribs)
m (importing article from wikihow)
 
Kipkis (Kipkis | contribs)
m (Text replacement - "[[Category: D" to "[[Category:D")
 
(4 intermediate revisions by the same user not shown)
Line 4: Line 4:
 
===Improving Your Diet===
 
===Improving Your Diet===
 
#Do a food recall.  Eating healthier is a great goal, but a broad one.  To help you tailor your goal and figure out exactly what you need to do differently, start by doing a few days of a food recall.
 
#Do a food recall.  Eating healthier is a great goal, but a broad one.  To help you tailor your goal and figure out exactly what you need to do differently, start by doing a few days of a food recall.
#*A food recall is when you write down detailed notes about what you eat and drink in one day.  Include all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner), any snacks or nibbles throughout the day and anything you drink (or add to your drinks).<ref>http://apps.medsch.ucla.edu/nutrition/dietassess.htm</ref>
+
#*A food recall is when you write down detailed notes about what you eat and drink in one day.  Include all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner), any snacks or nibbles throughout the day and anything you drink (or add to your drinks).<ref name="rf1">http://apps.medsch.ucla.edu/nutrition/dietassess.htm</ref>
 
#*Be as detailed as possible.  If you're not good at remembering what you ate over the last few days, try keeping a[[Keep a Food Diary| food journal]] for a few days, either on paper or using a smartphone diet-tracking app.  
 
#*Be as detailed as possible.  If you're not good at remembering what you ate over the last few days, try keeping a[[Keep a Food Diary| food journal]] for a few days, either on paper or using a smartphone diet-tracking app.  
 
#*After you have your notes, review them and see where you can make changes. This will help you set goals for yourself and design an appropriate meal plan.
 
#*After you have your notes, review them and see where you can make changes. This will help you set goals for yourself and design an appropriate meal plan.
 
#*Examples of things you may want to change include:  eating breakfast on a regular basis, drinking less soda, eating more vegetables or snacking less.
 
#*Examples of things you may want to change include:  eating breakfast on a regular basis, drinking less soda, eating more vegetables or snacking less.
#[[Meal Plan|Write up a meal plan]].  A meal plan will be a great help to you when you're attempting to make changes to your eating pattern and style.  This will be a guide or blueprint for all your food choices.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/menu-planning/art-20048199?pg=1</ref>
+
#[[Meal Plan|Write up a meal plan]].  A meal plan will be a great help to you when you're attempting to make changes to your eating pattern and style.  This will be a guide or blueprint for all your food choices.<ref name="rf2">http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/menu-planning/art-20048199?pg=1</ref>
 
#*A meal plan can be very detailed or just a few notes, but take some time and write out your ideas of what you are going to eat for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and beverages for the coming week.   
 
#*A meal plan can be very detailed or just a few notes, but take some time and write out your ideas of what you are going to eat for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and beverages for the coming week.   
 
#*Having a week or two of meals laid out in front of you can help you visually see if you're making the right changes to your diet.  You can look and see if you're meeting your goals, like including a vegetable at each meal or scheduling a balanced breakfast every morning.  
 
#*Having a week or two of meals laid out in front of you can help you visually see if you're making the right changes to your diet.  You can look and see if you're meeting your goals, like including a vegetable at each meal or scheduling a balanced breakfast every morning.  
 
#*Use your meal plan to guide you throughout the week.  You can also use it to help you write up a grocery list to make sure you purchase everything you need at the store.
 
#*Use your meal plan to guide you throughout the week.  You can also use it to help you write up a grocery list to make sure you purchase everything you need at the store.
#Eat a balanced and varied diet.  One of the main components to "eating healthy" is having a balanced and varied diet.<ref>http://www.fao.org/docrep/005/y4168e/y4168e05.htm</ref>  Without these, it's difficult to make sure you're eating a nutritious diet.
+
#Eat a balanced and varied diet.  One of the main components to "eating healthy" is having a balanced and varied diet.<ref name="rf3">http://www.fao.org/docrep/005/y4168e/y4168e05.htm</ref>  Without these, it's difficult to make sure you're eating a nutritious diet.
#*A balanced diet means that you're eating the right amounts of the right types of foods for you.<ref>http://www.fao.org/docrep/005/y4168e/y4168e05.htm</ref>  For example, you don't want to eat mostly grains and forget about fruits and vegetables.
+
#*A balanced diet means that you're eating the right amounts of the right types of foods for you.<ref name="rf3" />  For example, you don't want to eat mostly grains and forget about fruits and vegetables.
 
#*Also, make sure that you have a varied diet as well.  That means eating a wide variety of foods from within each food group.  For example, don't only go for an apple every day.  Rotate through apples, oranges, berries or pineapple.
 
#*Also, make sure that you have a varied diet as well.  That means eating a wide variety of foods from within each food group.  For example, don't only go for an apple every day.  Rotate through apples, oranges, berries or pineapple.
 
#*A combination of both a balanced and varied diet will provide the basis for a nutritious diet that provides with you with all the recommended vitamins and minerals you need.
 
#*A combination of both a balanced and varied diet will provide the basis for a nutritious diet that provides with you with all the recommended vitamins and minerals you need.
 
#Make half of your plate a fruit or vegetable.  One of the ways to make your meal balanced and nutritious is by filling up half your plate with a fruit or a vegetable.
 
#Make half of your plate a fruit or vegetable.  One of the ways to make your meal balanced and nutritious is by filling up half your plate with a fruit or a vegetable.
#*Both fruits and vegetables are low-calorie and high in fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.<ref>http://www.choosemyplate.gov/fruits-nutrients-health</ref><ref>http://www.choosemyplate.gov/vegetables-nutrients-health</ref>  These foods are main sources of many essential nutrients.
+
#*Both fruits and vegetables are low-calorie and high in fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.<ref name="rf4">http://www.choosemyplate.gov/fruits-nutrients-health</ref><ref name="rf5">http://www.choosemyplate.gov/vegetables-nutrients-health</ref>  These foods are main sources of many essential nutrients.
#*Include one to two servings of either fruit or vegetables at each meal and snack.  One serving of fruit is 1/2 cup or one small piece,<ref>http://www.choosemyplate.gov/fruit</ref> and one serving of vegetables is 1 cup of chopped veggies (like carrots or broccoli) or 1 to 2 cups of leafy greens like kale.<ref>http://www.choosemyplate.gov/vegetables</ref>
+
#*Include one to two servings of either fruit or vegetables at each meal and snack.  One serving of fruit is 1/2 cup or one small piece,<ref name="rf6">http://www.choosemyplate.gov/fruit</ref> and one serving of vegetables is 1 cup of chopped veggies (like carrots or broccoli) or 1 to 2 cups of leafy greens like kale.<ref name="rf7">http://www.choosemyplate.gov/vegetables</ref>
#*If you can, try to choose the fruits and vegetables that are the most nutrient-dense.  These foods are incredibly high in nutrients compared to others and are typically darker and brighter in color.<ref>http://nihseniorhealth.gov/eatingwellasyougetolder/choosenutrientdensefoods/01.html</ref>  For example, dark green vegetables like spinach or kale are much higher in vitamins (especially Vitamin A and K) when compared to iceberg lettuce, which is almost white.
+
#*If you can, try to choose the fruits and vegetables that are the most nutrient-dense.  These foods are incredibly high in nutrients compared to others and are typically darker and brighter in color.<ref name="rf8">http://nihseniorhealth.gov/eatingwellasyougetolder/choosenutrientdensefoods/01.html</ref>  For example, dark green vegetables like spinach or kale are much higher in vitamins (especially Vitamin A and K) when compared to iceberg lettuce, which is almost white.
#Choose lean protein.  Lean protein is another essential component to your diet.  Protein provides the building blocks your body needs to function every day.<ref>http://www.choosemyplate.gov/protein-foods</ref>
+
#Choose lean protein.  Lean protein is another essential component to your diet.  Protein provides the building blocks your body needs to function every day.<ref name="rf9">http://www.choosemyplate.gov/protein-foods</ref>
#*To meet your daily recommended needs, include a 3 – 4 oz serving of protein at each meal.  One serving is about the size of your palm or a deck of cards.<ref>http://www.choosemyplate.gov/protein-foods-nutrients-health</ref>
+
#*To meet your daily recommended needs, include a 3 – 4 oz serving of protein at each meal.  One serving is about the size of your palm or a deck of cards.<ref name="rf10">http://www.choosemyplate.gov/protein-foods-nutrients-health</ref>
#*Leaner proteins are lower in calories and fat compared to proteins that are less lean and make an important part of a healthy diet.<ref>http://www.choosemyplate.gov/protein-foods-tips</ref>
+
#*Leaner proteins are lower in calories and fat compared to proteins that are less lean and make an important part of a healthy diet.<ref name="rf11">http://www.choosemyplate.gov/protein-foods-tips</ref>
 
#*Choose foods like:  poultry, eggs, lean pork, lean beef, seafood, tofu and legumes.  Limit fattier protein sources like sausage, bacon, deep-fried fish/chicken, processed meats and higher-fat beef and pork.
 
#*Choose foods like:  poultry, eggs, lean pork, lean beef, seafood, tofu and legumes.  Limit fattier protein sources like sausage, bacon, deep-fried fish/chicken, processed meats and higher-fat beef and pork.
 
#Go for whole grains.  Grain-based foods make up a large part of many diets.  Foods like breads, rices and pastas are delicious and can be a part of a healthy diet. Make most, if not all, of your grain choices 100% whole grain.
 
#Go for whole grains.  Grain-based foods make up a large part of many diets.  Foods like breads, rices and pastas are delicious and can be a part of a healthy diet. Make most, if not all, of your grain choices 100% whole grain.
#*Whole grains are minimally processed and contain each part of the grain (the bran, endosperm and germ).  This makes whole grains higher in fiber, protein and other nutrients that are beneficial to your diet.<ref>http://www.choosemyplate.gov/grains</ref>
+
#*Whole grains are minimally processed and contain each part of the grain (the bran, endosperm and germ).  This makes whole grains higher in fiber, protein and other nutrients that are beneficial to your diet.<ref name="rf12">http://www.choosemyplate.gov/grains</ref>
 
#*More refined grains like white bread or white rice are stripped of those vital nutrients.  These types of foods should be limited in your diet.
 
#*More refined grains like white bread or white rice are stripped of those vital nutrients.  These types of foods should be limited in your diet.
#*Stick to 1/2 cup or 1 oz servings of whole grains.<ref>http://www.choosemyplate.gov/grains</ref>  Try foods like: 100% whole grain breads and pastas, brown rice, quinoa, oats, millet and barley.
+
#*Stick to 1/2 cup or 1 oz servings of whole grains.<ref name="rf12" />  Try foods like: 100% whole grain breads and pastas, brown rice, quinoa, oats, millet and barley.
 
#Drink adequate fluids.  Outside of foods, drinking adequate fluids can also help you have a healthier diet.  Although water doesn't provide any nutrients, it's an essential part of your diet.
 
#Drink adequate fluids.  Outside of foods, drinking adequate fluids can also help you have a healthier diet.  Although water doesn't provide any nutrients, it's an essential part of your diet.
#*Water is important for a variety of functions in your body including regulating body temperature, maintaining acid/base balance, lubricating joints and managing your blood pressure.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/multimedia/functions-of-water-in-the-body/img-20005799</ref>
+
#*Water is important for a variety of functions in your body including regulating body temperature, maintaining acid/base balance, lubricating joints and managing your blood pressure.<ref name="rf13">http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/multimedia/functions-of-water-in-the-body/img-20005799</ref>
#*Most health professionals recommend consuming anywhere from eight to 13 8-ounce glasses of water daily (1.9 to 3 liters).  This will differ for everyone based on gender, age and activity level. You should drink enough so that you do not feel thirsty at any point during the day.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256</ref>
+
#*Most health professionals recommend consuming anywhere from eight to 13 8-ounce glasses of water daily (1.9 to 3 liters).  This will differ for everyone based on gender, age and activity level. You should drink enough so that you do not feel thirsty at any point during the day.<ref name="rf14">http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256</ref>
 
#*Stick to clear, sugar-free and decaffeinated beverages.  Try: water, flavored water, unsweetened decaf coffee and tea.
 
#*Stick to clear, sugar-free and decaffeinated beverages.  Try: water, flavored water, unsweetened decaf coffee and tea.
#*Limit sugary drinks and alcohol.  These contain excess calories and provide little to no worthwhile nutrition.<ref>http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-drinks/sugary-drinks/</ref>  Keep alcohol at a max of one serving or less daily for women and two servings or less for men.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/alcohol/art-20044551</ref>
+
#*Limit sugary drinks and alcohol.  These contain excess calories and provide little to no worthwhile nutrition.<ref name="rf15">http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-drinks/sugary-drinks/</ref>  Keep alcohol at a max of one serving or less daily for women and two servings or less for men.<ref name="rf16">http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/alcohol/art-20044551</ref>
 
#Snack smart.  Snacking can get a bad rap in terms of "healthy eating."  Many people associate snacking with foods like chips or candies; however, eating a ''healthy'' snack can help improve your overall diet.
 
#Snack smart.  Snacking can get a bad rap in terms of "healthy eating."  Many people associate snacking with foods like chips or candies; however, eating a ''healthy'' snack can help improve your overall diet.
#*Snacks are a great addition to your diet when you're feeling hungry and your next meal isn't for another few hours, to help you fuel up for a workout, or recover from an intense exercise session.<ref>http://www.todaysdietitian.com/newarchives/100713p44.shtml</ref>
+
#*Snacks are a great addition to your diet when you're feeling hungry and your next meal isn't for another few hours, to help you fuel up for a workout, or recover from an intense exercise session.<ref name="rf17">http://www.todaysdietitian.com/newarchives/100713p44.shtml</ref>
#*Snacks can lead to unhealthy weight gain if you eat when you're not hungry or out of boredom, or if you choose unhealthier foods.<ref>http://www.todaysdietitian.com/newarchives/100713p44.shtml</ref>
+
#*Snacks can lead to unhealthy weight gain if you eat when you're not hungry or out of boredom, or if you choose unhealthier foods.<ref name="rf17" />
 
#*Snacks, like your meals, should be well-balanced and contain a combination of lean protein, fruit, or vegetables.
 
#*Snacks, like your meals, should be well-balanced and contain a combination of lean protein, fruit, or vegetables.
 
#*Limit processed foods, foods with added sugars or those that are higher in fat and calories.  Desserts, candies, cookies, pastries or chips should be limited.  You do not have to avoid these foods completely, but these treats should only be eaten in moderation.
 
#*Limit processed foods, foods with added sugars or those that are higher in fat and calories.  Desserts, candies, cookies, pastries or chips should be limited.  You do not have to avoid these foods completely, but these treats should only be eaten in moderation.
Line 48: Line 48:
 
#Plan out what exercise you're going to do.  Like your meal plan for healthy eating, spend some time thinking about what types of exercise you'd like to include for your activity.
 
#Plan out what exercise you're going to do.  Like your meal plan for healthy eating, spend some time thinking about what types of exercise you'd like to include for your activity.
 
#*There are many different ways to be active.  The more you enjoy your workouts, the more likely you are to stick with them long-term.
 
#*There are many different ways to be active.  The more you enjoy your workouts, the more likely you are to stick with them long-term.
#*Consider what types of activity you may want to include.  It is important to include both cardio and strength training activity each week for the best overall exercise and health benefits.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/fitness/art-20048269?pg=1</ref>
+
#*Consider what types of activity you may want to include.  It is important to include both cardio and strength training activity each week for the best overall exercise and health benefits.<ref name="rf18">http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/fitness/art-20048269?pg=1</ref>
 
#*Gyms are a great place to join if you want to work on adding in physical activity.  You have access to group classes, cardio machines, weight machines and personal training staff.
 
#*Gyms are a great place to join if you want to work on adding in physical activity.  You have access to group classes, cardio machines, weight machines and personal training staff.
 
#*If you're not one for the gym, consider what activities you can do at home.  You may want to purchase exercise DVDs, plan a walking/running route or find free online videos.
 
#*If you're not one for the gym, consider what activities you can do at home.  You may want to purchase exercise DVDs, plan a walking/running route or find free online videos.
#*Find activities you want to do each week and schedule them into your day and week.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/fitness/art-20048269?pg=1</ref>
+
#*Find activities you want to do each week and schedule them into your day and week.<ref name="rf18" />
 
#Include regular, moderate-intensity physical activity every week.  One main type of exercise is aerobic exercise (cardio).  These activities have a lot of great health benefits when done on a regular and weekly basis.
 
#Include regular, moderate-intensity physical activity every week.  One main type of exercise is aerobic exercise (cardio).  These activities have a lot of great health benefits when done on a regular and weekly basis.
#*The USDA recommends doing about 150 minutes or 2 1/2 hours of moderate-intensity cardio activity each week.  Moderate intensity activities are those that make you sweat and get your heart rate elevated for at least 10 – 20 minutes.<ref>http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm</ref>
+
#*The USDA recommends doing about 150 minutes or 2 1/2 hours of moderate-intensity cardio activity each week.  Moderate intensity activities are those that make you sweat and get your heart rate elevated for at least 10 – 20 minutes.<ref name="rf19">http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm</ref>
#*The benefits associated with cardio exercises include:  weight loss or healthy weight support, decreased risk of diabetes and high blood pressure, decreased risk for obesity, improved mood and sleep habits.<ref>http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/</ref>
+
#*The benefits associated with cardio exercises include:  weight loss or healthy weight support, decreased risk of diabetes and high blood pressure, decreased risk for obesity, improved mood and sleep habits.<ref name="rf20">http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/</ref>
 
#*Do a combination of activities that you've planned out.  They can be anything from swimming, dancing, hiking, walking or doing a gym aerobics class.
 
#*Do a combination of activities that you've planned out.  They can be anything from swimming, dancing, hiking, walking or doing a gym aerobics class.
 
#Add in resistance and strength training.  In addition to cardio, you should do strength training each week.  These exercises offer different health benefits than cardio and will help round out your physical activity regimen.
 
#Add in resistance and strength training.  In addition to cardio, you should do strength training each week.  These exercises offer different health benefits than cardio and will help round out your physical activity regimen.
#*Strength or resistance training exercises aim to help build your lean muscle mass.  The benefits include more dense and hard bones, decreased risk of osteoporosis, increases in lean muscle mass and increased metabolism.<ref>http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/strength-training/art-20046670</ref>
+
#*Strength or resistance training exercises aim to help build your lean muscle mass.  The benefits include more dense and hard bones, decreased risk of osteoporosis, increases in lean muscle mass and increased metabolism.<ref name="rf21">http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/strength-training/art-20046670</ref>
#*Activities like weight lifting, yoga or pilates can all count as strength training.  Choose your favorite activity and include it two to three days a week in addition to your cardio.<ref>http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm</ref>
+
#*Activities like weight lifting, yoga or pilates can all count as strength training.  Choose your favorite activity and include it two to three days a week in addition to your cardio.<ref name="rf19" />
 
#Increase your baseline activity.  The last main type of activity is baseline or lifestyle activity.  Although it's not considered planned or consistent exercise, there are still a variety of benefits to increasing your baseline activity.
 
#Increase your baseline activity.  The last main type of activity is baseline or lifestyle activity.  Although it's not considered planned or consistent exercise, there are still a variety of benefits to increasing your baseline activity.
#*Lifestyle activities are those that you already perform as part of your daily life.  These can include walking to and from your car, doing laundry, raking leaves and taking the stairs.<ref>http://www.medicine.ox.ac.uk/bandolier/booth/hliving/Obexer.html</ref>
+
#*Lifestyle activities are those that you already perform as part of your daily life.  These can include walking to and from your car, doing laundry, raking leaves and taking the stairs.<ref name="rf22">http://www.medicine.ox.ac.uk/bandolier/booth/hliving/Obexer.html</ref>
 
#*These types of activities do not count towards your 150 minutes of planned cardio each week.  These are done in addition to that.   
 
#*These types of activities do not count towards your 150 minutes of planned cardio each week.  These are done in addition to that.   
#*Studies have shown that these activities may provide similar benefits to more traditional, planned physical activity (like going for a 30 minute jog).  They can also increase or support these benefits if done in combination with planned physical activity.<ref>http://www.medicine.ox.ac.uk/bandolier/booth/hliving/Obexer.html</ref>
+
#*Studies have shown that these activities may provide similar benefits to more traditional, planned physical activity (like going for a 30 minute jog).  They can also increase or support these benefits if done in combination with planned physical activity.<ref name="rf22" />
  
 
===Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle===
 
===Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle===
Line 69: Line 69:
 
#*Talk to your doctor about why you want to eat healthier and exercise more often.  They may have some tips for you and may be able to let you know long-term whether or not your plan has had a positive effect on your health.
 
#*Talk to your doctor about why you want to eat healthier and exercise more often.  They may have some tips for you and may be able to let you know long-term whether or not your plan has had a positive effect on your health.
 
#*Your doctor may also be able to refer you to a registered dietitian or personal trainer to help you get additional guidance on your goals.
 
#*Your doctor may also be able to refer you to a registered dietitian or personal trainer to help you get additional guidance on your goals.
#Try new things.  When you're first starting with a new type of diet and exercise plan, it can be exciting and fun. Over time you might get bored with your routine which may make it more likely that you'll give up.<ref>http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/nutrition_articles.asp?id=114</ref>
+
#Try new things.  When you're first starting with a new type of diet and exercise plan, it can be exciting and fun. Over time you might get bored with your routine which may make it more likely that you'll give up.<ref name="rf23">http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/nutrition_articles.asp?id=114</ref>
#*Trying new things to keep your routines fresh can help you stay motivated and interested in your plan for a healthier lifestyle.<ref>http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/nutrition_articles.asp?id=114</ref>
+
#*Trying new things to keep your routines fresh can help you stay motivated and interested in your plan for a healthier lifestyle.<ref name="rf23" />
 
#*A few ways to keep your healthy eating plan fun and fresh are by:  trying new recipes, buy a new ingredient or new item you've never tried, or try recreating your favorite restaurant or comfort foods at home.
 
#*A few ways to keep your healthy eating plan fun and fresh are by:  trying new recipes, buy a new ingredient or new item you've never tried, or try recreating your favorite restaurant or comfort foods at home.
 
#*You may also get bored with your fitness routine.  Like your diet, there are some ways to keep things fresh like:  signing up for a race or competition, find an exercise buddy, signing up for a new gym class or listening to a good audiobook while you work out.
 
#*You may also get bored with your fitness routine.  Like your diet, there are some ways to keep things fresh like:  signing up for a race or competition, find an exercise buddy, signing up for a new gym class or listening to a good audiobook while you work out.
Line 77: Line 77:
 
#*You can also use your journal to write out your meal plan and fitness plans for the week.
 
#*You can also use your journal to write out your meal plan and fitness plans for the week.
 
#*It may also be a good place to track your progress towards your goals.  You can make notes about how easy or hard it's been and how your goals have changed over time.
 
#*It may also be a good place to track your progress towards your goals.  You can make notes about how easy or hard it's been and how your goals have changed over time.
#Take regular measurements.  Regardless of what your ultimate end goal is, taking some measurements may help keep you on track with your healthy eating and activity plan long-term.<ref>http://news.health.com/2014/04/17/6-fascinating-things-a-food-journal-can-teach-you-about-your-eating-habits/</ref>
+
#Take regular measurements.  Regardless of what your ultimate end goal is, taking some measurements may help keep you on track with your healthy eating and activity plan long-term.<ref name="rf24">http://news.health.com/2014/04/17/6-fascinating-things-a-food-journal-can-teach-you-about-your-eating-habits/</ref>
#*When you eat healthier and are more active you may lose some weight.  Regular weigh-ins can help you see how your new goals have affected your weight.  Weight yourself once a week — you're more likely to stick with your plan if you weigh yourself regularly. Make sure you do it at the same time of day each week, wearing the same clothing.<ref>http://news.health.com/2014/04/17/6-fascinating-things-a-food-journal-can-teach-you-about-your-eating-habits/</ref>
+
#*When you eat healthier and are more active you may lose some weight.  Regular weigh-ins can help you see how your new goals have affected your weight.  Weight yourself once a week — you're more likely to stick with your plan if you weigh yourself regularly. Make sure you do it at the same time of day each week, wearing the same clothing.<ref name="rf24" />
 
#*You may also want to consider tracking your clothes size, waist or hip size as well.  If you notice any of your measurements getting too big or too small, you can return to your journal and make any changes you need to your eating and fitness plans.
 
#*You may also want to consider tracking your clothes size, waist or hip size as well.  If you notice any of your measurements getting too big or too small, you can return to your journal and make any changes you need to your eating and fitness plans.