1) First and most importantly, work with a health care professional! Before I started, I consulted a nurse practitioner, which helped me to make the best decisions based on my needs. You can work with a doctor, nutrition consultant, nurse practitioner, etc.

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2) "All things in moderation; including moderation." (If you know who originally said this, please contact me, I'd want to credit and give thanks.) If you’re craving something, have it, but don’t eat past full.

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3) Customize! Make it work for you and your body’s needs. Some days you may need more protein or more carbohydrates; just be sensitive to what your body needs, not what your head wants.

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4) Listen to your body! If you need to rest, that's okay. But, if you’re feeling sluggish for a few days it may be you need to be doing more. This is why it is important to work with a doctor; they will help you distinguish what you need.

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5) Take it slow, and stay with it! It took years to put on the weight; it will take time to get it off. Remember, you are changing your habits and lifestyle.

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6) Exercise! This is so important, and the more you exercise on a regular basis, the more you'll love it! Remember to do cardio, strength, and flexibility exercises to keep balanced.

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7) Eat a colorful and natural diet. I try to have at least five different colors with each meal. Make sure the colors are natural, not food coloring though!

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8) Read, read, read! Get out there and learn what the experts are saying. But, use common sense, if it sounds like a fad, or something you wouldn’t want to do the rest of your life, don’t do it. You probably wouldn’t have lasting results.

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9) Have fun and Enjoy!