Diets, devils and details

Today is hands-down the nicest day we've seen thus far this spring in UConn country. As feet see the first bits of sun in flip-flops and shorts are the first item on your shopping list, you might realize it's time to drop some of that winter weight.

Many students are starting an exercise regimen and are attempting to cut out some unnecessary calories. However, when results aren't as immediate as you would like, you may wonder why you aren't dropping the pounds. Here are some reasons you could be unknowingly sabotaging your own success.

Look at your weight loss

from a different angle

Many generalize salads and fruit as "safe foods" without adding variety or mixing-up their diets. However, it is important for students to mix up their menus and actually eat more often. Attempt to increase the consumption of smaller, more frequent meals full of whole grain, like multi-grain breads and rice.

"Not only do most of these foods contain fiber, which helps curb your appetite, but they're also low on the glycemic index [GI]," Lisa Sasson, R.D., clinical associate professor of nutrition and food studies at New York University, wrote on Shape's Web site. "The carbs in low-GI foods are absorbed into your bloodstream slowly, allowing you to go longer without feeling hungry."

But Sasson cautions those who are under the assumption that whole grains are healthier.

"But many of these snacks can be high in fat, sugar and sodium - not to mention calories," Sasson said.

Your cheat day -

a weekend sabotage

Sometimes students just need a break, and understandably, that leeway often transfers to exercise and nutritional habits. After a week of conscientious eating, your first instinct is to have a quick splurge before continuing on your journey to the "ideal body." However, dieters who shed a small amount of weight every weekday and splurge on the weekends are, in actuality, just taking a step backward.

"When trying to lose those last few pounds, every calorie counts," Kathy McManus, director of the department of nutrition at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, wrote on Shape's Web site. "By eating whatever you want for two days straight, it's almost inevitable that you'll undo the hard work you put in during the previous five."

Your buddy may not be

so helpful, after all

Often friends exercise together, both for companionship and motivation. However, friends often let friends skip scheduled workouts without reason, and indulge in "guilty" snacks without consequence, as long as they do it together.

"Partners observe the other's eating and exercise habits and alter their own behavior to match," Becky Marquez, Ph.D., a researcher at the Miriam Hospital in Providence, R.I., wrote on Shape's Web site.

Make sure to pick a partner who is dedicated to your success and genuinely wants to accomplish goals similar to your own. This way, you and your partner will be more dedicated to a fit-and-fantastic start to spring.