Ways to help lose holiday weight

DALLAS, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- U.S. adults who want to start losing holiday weight can start by ridding the refrigerator and pantry of fattening candy, snacks and treats.

"Then go shopping to stock up on food selections that are good for you," advises Lona Sandon, a registered dietician at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.

"It's easier to stick to a healthy eating plan when you've got nutritious foods handy -- when it's easy to grab something nutritious and low-calorie, you're more likely to eat right."

Fresh fruits and vegetables, low-fat yogurt and milk, lean meats, whole-grain cereals and walnuts or almonds are healthy foods that can be eaten as snacks.

Sandon also advises to:

-- Eat a well-balanced diet, but eat in moderation because eating large portions of even healthy foods can prompt weight gain or prevent weight loss.

-- Exercise regularly so it becomes part of your normal daily routine. At least 30 minutes of vigorous physical activity each day is a good rule of thumb.

-- Get plenty of sleep.