Popular, dramatic, and revolutionizing television shows, such as "The Biggest Loser" and "Extreme Makeover: Weight Loss Edition," have been stirring up some controversy. The situation is whether these shows, which reveal heavy, obese people transforming themselves from the brink of death to the peak of healthiness, positively or negatively affect Americans at home who are struggling with the same factor: obesity.

Some of you may have gained that unlucky “freshman 15.”Others may have maneuvered around that pitfall, and a few had the ability to shed off some unwanted pounds. Whatever your situation is, this summer is a chance to stay in shape or get back into shape.

If you’re struggling to keep off weight, and you want ensure you look spectacular on the first day of classes, here are some helpful key points you should consider:

Eat a good, healthy, and strong breakfast.

We’ve all heard this before, repeatedly, but it’s the truth and it works.

Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day.

We all have a list of excuses why we can’t exercise; maybe you’re in a bad mood or the weather isn’t being cooperative. Don’t do that, girls! Make a motivational poster or message to yourself that will get you going to the gym or for a run outside. You’ll thank yourself in the end.

Eat a light to moderate lunch and a controlled dinner.

Portion sizes, portion sizes, portion sizes--a fist-size amount is all you need!

Move around!

Don’t sit in front of your computer, laptop, or television. It’s bad for your eyes and will create an unneeded belly pouch.

Less sugar and carbs and more fruits and veggies!

Carbs are fatty and high in calories. Yes, the food pyramid says you need a large amount of breads and meats, but to limit your intake. Sugar is bad, too. Substituting these two things with healthy foods will dramatically change your body.


Don’t get discouraged this summer or when school begins again. Make realistic goals and own them! Embrace your body, but at the same time, make sure you’re not harming it in any way.

It’s okay to enjoy an ice cream on a hot summer day or to eat a small slice of cake at a friend’s birthday party. And no, that doesn’t mean you have to run to the gym and burn off what you just ate. Instead, you should make sure you don’t eat too much of whatever the tasty treat is, and don’t eat it every single day.

Laura Good | Image: Source