Weight woes? Try exercise, smaller portions and low-calorie products

According to a new national survey released by the Calorie Control Council, more than 186 million American adults – or eight out of ten people aged 18 and older – are "weight conscious." In addition, more than half want to reduce their weight, and noted that exercise, cutting back on sugar, using low calorie or reduced sugar products, and restricting the size of meal portions are the most common tactics.

Although statistics show that two-thirds of American adults are overweight or obese, experts say the CCC survey reveals some positive statistics. According to survey results, many dieters now realize that short-term approaches will not result in lasting success – only 17 percent skip meals to diet, 13 percent use diet pills, and eight percent follow restrictive weight loss diets. "Although America has a serious weight problem, the good news is that more and more people are trying to address it," says James Hill, PhD, co-founder of America On The Move, a national program with a mission to improve health and quality of life by promoting healthful eating and active living among individuals, families, communities and society. "A good way to start is by stopping any further weight gain by making small lifestyle changes."

In other survey findings, the majority of those trying to lose weight admit they are frustrated by their lack of progress. They noted several obstacles to reaching their goals: not enough exercise (69 percent), metabolism slowing (62 percent) and too much snacking (52 percent). Some of the reasons given were more gender specific: Women often eat for emotional reasons (50 percent) while men find themselves overeating at mealtimes (44 percent).

Remember, by incorporating low-calorie, sugar-free products such as diet sodas, light juices and light yogurts, consumers can control calories while still enjoying their favorite foods on a reasonable budget. For example, drinking a diet soda instead of the full-calorie version can save 150 calories a day – or potentially 15 pounds – by year's end.

On a slightly different note...remember how I was recently raving about my love for Dr. Brown's Diet Black Cherry Soda? When I was in New Orleans this past weekend for Jazz Fest (don't hate, appreciate!), I walked into Central Grocery to get my muffuletta fix - as I do every trip there - and guess what they had?! My fave black cherry soda! Let's just say it was the perfect drink to wash down that wonderful, oily sandwich and some spicy Jalapeno-flavored Zapp's potato chips. Yum.