Studies show that dieting is actually a predictor for weight gain - sounds counter-intuitive, right? So, how do we stop the dieting cycle and make peace with food? Start managing your weight through healthy lifestyle changes that you can maintain. Establishing healthful habits will lead to weight management now AND huge health rewards in the future. Start by befriending your measuring cups for a few weeks to learn what accurate portion sizes look like, and concentrate on your satiety after you finish. Are you hungry, satisfied or stuffed? Often if we slow down and take a break, we are satisfied after smaller portions.

When planning your daily "calorie budget," make sure to figure in three meals and at least two snacks to keep your metabolism revved up and ward off feelings of deprivation. Think of your snacks as balanced mini-meals that provide nutrients and variety. Munch on snacks that provide 100-200 calories, with a mix of carbohydrates, protein and fat.

• 1 Tablespoon Jif peanut butter on one medium apple
• 1 cup tomato soup with five whole-grain crackers
• One container low-fat or fat-free yogurt with 14 almonds
• Mixed veggies with 1/4 cup hummus
• 3 cups air-popped popcorn sprinkled with 3 Tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• Trail mix made with 2 Tablespoons raisins, 14 almonds and 1/4 cup Honey Bunches of Oats Just Bunches Cinnamon