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Happy New You
By Norene Gilletz

January 2004 has arrived! One of the most popular resolutions is to lose weight. Here are some timely tips to help you on your "weigh" to a healthier, happier New You!

Try to base the majority of your meals on the Big Four - vegetables, fruits, grains and legumes (e.g., beans, peas, lentils).

Include low-fat dairy products (skim or 1% milk, yogurt, low-fat cheeses) - they contain calcium. Substitute soy milk fortified with calcium if you are lactose-intolerant.

Choose whole grain breads, cereals and grains (brown rice, bulgur, kasha).

Eat fish, lean poultry and tofu instead of fatty beef. Enjoy vegetarian meals a few times a week.

Organize your grocery list according to categories: frozen foods, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, etc. It helps speed up shopping.

On your grocery list, include convenient staples with a long shelf life (pastas, canned beans, salmon, tuna); you'll need to shop less often.

There is no such thing as the perfect, magical diet. Strive for variety. Go for green cuisine (broccoli, kale, spinach) - they're lean!

Experiment with fresh herbs (basil, dill, thyme) - they add flavor without adding calories.

Try preparing familiar foods slightly differently (e.g. replace ground beef with ground turkey in recipes).