How to Diet for Spring Break

During the spring semester of the college school year, many students start wondering how to diet for spring break. However, you should start thinking about this goal long before spring semester to lose weight safely. To lose weight for spring break, start eating healthfully as early as you can. Get plenty of exercise so you'll look toned in your bikini or swim trunks. With preparation, you can look great in every picture taken.

Instructions

• 1

  Plan ahead. If you want to lose the "Freshman 15" by mid-March, start dieting no later than mid-January (earlier if you can). Allow at least one week for every 2 pounds you aim to lose. Motivate yourself by going shopping for a new swimsuit early in the semester. Post pictures of the beach around your dorm room or apartment for further motivation.

• 2

  Monitor calories. To lose 2 pounds each week, cut 500 calories from your diet and burn 500 extra calories with physical activity every day. Keep a food journal to determine how many calories you're eating. When you're in the cafeteria, reduce portion size by getting only a single plate of food and skipping the tray.

• 3

  Dine out less often. Restaurant meals are often packed with fat and calories. When you do dine out, split your entree with a friend. Start with a low-calorie soup, such as chicken noodle soup or vegetable soup. Choose entrees that are grilled, not breaded or fried. Drink water, not soda or beer. Avoid fast food.

• 4

  Cut back on alcohol, which is loaded with empty calories. If you go out with friends, alternate alcoholic beverages with glasses of water. Avoid drinking games. Choose lower-calorie drinks such as wine spritzers or vodka tonics rather than high-calorie beverages such as margaritas or daiquiris.

• 5

  Change your normal take-out order to healthier options. If you order pizza often, top it with vegetables and ask for half the cheese. If you're a fan of Chinese food, order steamed brown rice instead of fried rice, and stir-fried or steamed entrees, rather than battered or deep-fried dishes.

• 6

  Go grocery shopping for healthy foods that you can prepare quickly during breaks from class and studying. Purchase whole-wheat bread, reduced-fat cheese, deli turkey and lots of vegetables to make healthy sandwiches. Buy pre-cooked chicken, spinach, carrots, tomatoes and broccoli to prepare a grilled chicken salad. Use low-calorie dressing, such as a vinaigrette, instead of ranch or blue cheese.

• 7

  Exercise regularly to lose weight for spring break. Use your school's fitness center or exercise at home. When the weather warms up, go for walks or jogs with friends. Aim for 60 minutes of physical activity each day.