Probably the most common new year’s resolution involves eating better and losing weight.  Frequently, the two go hand in hand since healthy food tends to be lower in calories and more filling.  An apple has fewer calories than a Ding Dong (plus vitamins and fiber).  A bowl of bran flakes has fewer calories than a sticky bun.  No one is surprised by these facts.

I’m not particularly good at depriving myself.  Unfortunately, my waist measurement shows that. 

As a first step, look at what you drink.   It’s amazing how many calories are consumed by the glass.  This is one of the areas where healthy doesn’t mean low calorie.  Fruit juices do have vitamins, but they are also full of sugar.  Most fruit juices have as many calories as sodas. 

The big offenders are soda, sports drinks, alcohol, and full fat milk.  Switching from soda to water or full fat milk to non-fat (or even 1%) can make a big difference.  Herbal iced tea is a good a option.  (I like the Zinger teas.  I sweeten a half gallon with a few tablespoons of apple juice.)  Also, unless you are doing serious, high-intensity workouts or working out in heat and humidity, you probably don’t need sports drinks.  Of course, you should check with your doctor to make sure your electrolyte balance can handle the workout without supplements.  You can also cut the sport drinks with water to reduce the calories per fluid ounce.

I always try to limit my calories from beverages (save for the occasional glass of wine or cosmo). Personally, I’d rather indulge in ice cream or pie or some yummy pasta rather than waste those calories on soda.