Weight Loss in Your Twenties

If you're in your 20s, chances are you may still be hanging onto some habits from college: staying out a bit too late, drinking a few cocktails, nourishing yourself on ramen noodles. Only now, you're most likely realizing that you may have a few extra pounds to shed to be a happier, healthier, you. The good news is, your metabolism in your twenties is still running full speed. Losing weight and making other healthy changes now while in your twenties can set you up for lifelong success.

Diet

• To lose weight in your twenties, your diet should be consistent and filled with healthy choices and important nutrients, like foods high in protein. Protein helps build and keep lean muscle, and women need about 60 to 70 grams per day. Get your quota by eating skinless white-meat poultry, lean steak, fish, eggs, beans, tofu and low-fat dairy. Dairy also provides calcium, another essential nutrient. Most women are done building bone mass by age 25, so its time to start taking care of what you've got. Eating foods high in calcium, such as BLANK, can help prevent osteoporosis (weakening of the bones) later on in life. Also, start incorporating Omega-3 fats into your diet. These "good fats" can boost the serotonin "feel good" chemicals in your brain. This is especially important in your twenties, since women are particularly prone to depression during this time. Depression can lead to more weight gain or an inability to lose extra weight. Fish like salmon and tuna provide a great amount of Omega-3, but consuming walnuts or using canola oil in your cooking can also help get the amount you need.

To Drink or Not to Drink?

• Going out with friends and drinking specialty cocktails such as margaritas, pina coladas and mojitos may make for a fun night, but considering that the average margarita packs about 360 calories, you could be seriously ruining your chances of losing weight in just a few hours. Instead of the sugary cocktails, try ordering a glass of red or white wine spritzer or a light beer. And if you must have a margarita, limit it to just one.

Get Moving

• In addition to a healthy diet, exercise is a great way to lose weight in your twenties. If you're adjusting to a new job or a new lifestyle, exercising consistently can often be the first thing to go. Aim for three to five days of cardio, 30 minutes a day. Strength training to build lean muscle is important too, and aim for about three days of muscle building activity. If you hate the gym but love playing sports, look for an intramural team in your area. Postings can often be found on websites such as http://www.meetup.com, or http://www.craigslist.org. Joining a team is a great way to lose weight and expand your social network.