As it gets warmer and warmer I am getting more conscious of how many sweets I ate over the winter;). Swimsuit season is almost upon us! I exercise pretty regularly, but it’s time to get down to business and take charge;). In addition, my birthday is approaching in a couple weeks, which always causes me to reflect. And I’ve realized I am no longer a teenager and should probably stop eating like one;).

If you’re wanting to look for ways to create a healthier lifestyle without going into full-blown diet mode, or if you’re looking for ways to shed a couple last pounds before summer hits, here are a few tricks to get you there!

*Quit eating after dinner! It’s easier said than done, but I have talked to several people who have lost a few pounds simply by refusing to eat after dinner time. This gives your body time to digest and let’s face it- you’re probably not eating all that healthy if you’re reaching for a late night snack;).

*Drink a ton of water. Drink a huge glass right before you eat so you’ll feel more full, but drink constantly throughout the day as well. This has several health benefits, but it will also help you lose weight!

*Eat fewer portions. Don’t reach for those seconds. Keep your servings at a reasonable size. You’d be amazed how much weight you can lose by simply cutting back a little bit.

*Eat fewer sweets. If your body is really craving something, it’s ok to indulge every once in a while, but make sweets and treats a special thing, not an hourly or daily routine ;). Try a handful of raspberries to get rid of any sweet cravings- they are delicious and healthy!

*Eat fewer potatoes and breads. These are high in calorie and won’t help you feel full. Try eating your sandwiches between lettuce or opt for sweet potatoes over regular ones. When you do eat bread, look for whole wheat options that will have a lot more health benefits.

*Only eat out once a week. This will help your budget as well as your waistline. Limit yourself to date night and keep it at that! And when you do go out to eat, see if you can order a half portion of something, or try the salad instead of the burger!

*Eat more fruits and veggies! Have a smoothie for breakfast, grab an apple for a snack- these options are so much healthier, and you’ll feel fuller- helping you to avoid other empty calories.

*Meal plan with a purpose. Having a meal plan will help you to stay in instead of eating out; but it will also help you plan meals that are healthier and full of good food! Plan meals that have lots of fruits, veggies and protein and have limited creams, fats, and carbs. When planning ahead for snacks, think of things that are easy to grab or easy to prep; and plan things that are high in protein that will give you energy and keep your tummy from rumbling ;).

*If you’re really trying to shed those last couple pounds, exercise twice a day (talk to your doctor first!). A friend of mine was struggling to lose weight even with exercise and eating right, and her doctor told her to exercise twice a day. The length wasn’t as important so much as the twice a day factor. It gives your metabolism a jumpstart and kicks it into gear! (Again, talk to a physician before going this route;) ).

*Love yourself anyway! It’s hard to motivate yourself to eat right and exercise if you don’t love yourself in the first place! Love you for who you are, and the motivation will follow;).

What are your tricks for taking care of those last few pesky pounds? Share in the comments below!