Quote:

---

If you've made the decision that now is the time to lose weight, here's how to begin. Commit to the following:

*Make a reasonable timeline for your goals

*Set aside time for exercise, meal planning, and prep

*Get Heather's books and re-read them several times a year

*Dump the forbidden foods and ban them from entering your home

*Get yourself a calorie counter, whether it is a PDA or reference book

*Sign up for a gym or specific exercise program. Having to pay for it will keep you more committed to getting your money's worth, but having a video at home will help on days you can't get out of the house.

*Log everything you eat, even an Altoid or one jellybean

*See your doctor for a check up before and along the way for any prescription changes

*Vary your foods, but still eat according to the IBS diet, not forgetting a soluble fiber supplement, and insoluble fiber foods

*Drink plenty of water

*If you need them, take vitamins

*Weigh yourself only once a week and at the same time of day

*Take "before & after" pictures and get body measurements to "watch" your progress

*Reward yourself for every so many pounds lost, but NOT with food. (i.e. a movie, massage, pedicure, anything special)

*Come to our new IBS Fitness Board to start reporting in daily or weekly or whatever you can squeeze in

---