Make Your Kitchen Weight Loss-Friendly

Don't let your kitchen be your worst enemy! Learn how to make your kitchen, and the things in it, your weight lost allies.

Here's How:

1. Make sure the first things you see when you open your refrigerator and freezer are healthy options, like pre-prepared baggies of chopped veggies. Stash "treats," such as ice cream, out of plain sight.
2. Keep healthy pantry snacks handy and ready to eat. Dole out portions of binge-inducing foods, such as chips, into snack-size bags -- you know you'll eat more if you dive right into the full bag.
3. Always make sure you have a bowl of fresh, in-season fruit on the counter or kitchen table for easy, healthful snacking within arm's reach.
4. Always keep a variety of fresh veggies in your crisper drawer. Prep some of them ahead of the time by washing, peeling and cutting them so they'll be ready to eat at all times.
5. Always keep a running grocery list of staples that you need. The best intention to eat healthy is no good if you don't have the ingredients on-hand to make that healthier meal.
6. Keep a collection of storage containers on-hand. You can store half of your take-out portions before you sit down to eat, so you won't overindulge. And you can use them to stash pre-prepped foods so you can whip up a healthy meal quickly.
7. If you don't feel you can do without "bad" foods you are used to eating, consider buying single serving sizes. They may be more costly, but are worth it, since they provide instant portion control.
8. Stock your kitchen with the right tools: A vegetable steamer, rice cooker, measuring cup and spoons, non-stick frying and sauté pans, sharp knives, and smaller plates (again, instant portion control).
9. Always shop with a grocery list and have a snack before you go shopping. You'll be less likely to bring unfavorable foods into the house if you are prepared when shopping.