The 5: Keep the scale turning in the healthy direction

After weeks and weeks of successful weight loss, the needle on the scale seems to freeze at a certain number. And then, worse yet, you notice it begins turning clockwise again. Fear not, there are things you can do to stop that needle and soon get it turning in the healthier direction once again.

Here are five ways to help make that happen:

Amp-up the Exercise. If you haven't changed your workout in four to six weeks, you're probably starting to plateau. In addition to mixing the reps, number of sets, rest time, distance on treadmill etc., for maximum results, you should also increase your intensity level.
Eat Slowly. Sit back, relax, and savor the food you're eating. Research shows that people consume around 67 fewer calories per meal when they take their time.
Make Half Sandwiches. Skipping the top slice of bread will save you around 70 calories. If you eat a sandwich a day for lunch, you'll save yourself 490 calories a week.
Eat Protein. Try to consume more protein if you don't eat enough already. Protein digests very slowly (especially casein protein, which is found in dairy products), so it requires a great deal of calories to be expended in order for it to be processed.
Be Salad Smart. Because many popular salad dressings contain about 75 calories per tablespoon, you can save yourself about 150 calories per salad by substituting in vinegar.

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