Easy ways to achieve health resolutions

ATLANTA, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Eating healthier and becoming more physically active is on the top of many people's resolutions, but it need not be difficult, U.S. health officials say.

The CDC advises to:

-- Eat breakfast every day. When you don't eat breakfast, you are likely to make up for the calories by eating more later on in the day.

-- Choose a quick, healthy breakfast option such as yogurt with fruit or toast with sliced banana and a bit of peanut butter.

-- Make water more appealing by keeping it cold in the fridge or adding a slice of fruit for flavor. Choosing water keeps people from drinking something else that may be loaded with calories and sugar. People who drink sugary drinks tend to consume more calories.

-- Eat smaller food portions. When eating out, save some of the meal and take it home to make another meal.

-- At home, put only the amount you want to eat in a small bowl and don't go back for more. People eat more when confronted with larger portion sizes.

-- Prepare a healthy lunch at home and take it to work.

-- Regular physical activity is an important part of maintaining weight loss. If you need extra encouragement, exercise with friend or relative or start an activity interesting to you, such as gardening or bicycling.