Many sugar-free and reduced-sugar products crowd the shelves at grocery stores. Should you buy these items if you are trying to lead a healthier lifestyle or lose weight? Keep in mind that in order to win the weight loss battle, a calorie deficit must be created. Whether this is accomplished through reduced portion sizes, healthier choices, increased exercise, or ideally a combination of these decisions, you should become more informed of the ongoing debate of the role of sugar free products in your diet. While sugar free products may help in individuals on specific diets, we are understanding that such products may not be the healthiest choice as it may lead to overeating and consumption of empty calories.

When it comes to holiday eating at social events, the choices can be overwhelming. Most holiday foods are laden with fat and calories that might railroad your healthy eating plan. If you do not have a plan, it is easy to overindulge. The good news is that with some preparation you could stick with your weight loss regimen and even treat yourself to a few desserts without packing on the pounds this year!

A Basic Overview of dietary considerations for weight loss.

As you focus on your weight loss program, it is important not to place yourself at risk for nutritional deficiencies. Here we have outlined top 10 tips to avoid nutritional deficiencies while losing weight.

Many times consumers classify foods as good or bad, healthy or unhealthy, or allowed or forbidden. Instead of classifying foods into positive or negative categories, try evaluating them based on nutrient density. Nutrient density refers to the amount of nutrients for the given volume of food; in other words, containing the most nutrition per bite. The opposite of nutrient density is energy density. By definition energy dense foods have more calories per volume and provide few nutrients.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a combination of chronic bronchitis, asthma, and emphysema. According to the American Lung Association, COPD is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. Although obesity does not directly cause COPD, it is a risk factor and may play a role in influencing the development of the disease. We have outlined the top 10 lifestyle changes that can improve both COPD related symptoms and lead to weight loss.