How To Stick To Your New Year's Food Resolutions With Berries

Meet Tina Ruggiero, Driscoll's resident nutritionist. As an award winning nutrition expert, cookbook author and registered dietitian, she knows exactly what is needed to curb those afternoon cravings we all get.

When New Year arrives, nearly half of all Americans make some type of resolution. While aspirations of major change sound great (“I’m going to lose 20 pounds!” “I’m going to save more money!” “I’m going to run a marathon!”), just a fraction of people actually stick with their resolutions.

Not surprisingly, annual resolutions fail because they’re too lofty, but that’s no reason to give up. Weight loss resolutions, in particular, can be achieved if they’re approached the right way. The key is outlining specific, attainable action steps you can take which will bring you closer to your goal, every day. In fact, picking just one small “bad habit” to change has the greatest chance of making your New Year’s resolution a success.

For example, 3 p.m. snacking is a huge stumbling block for dieters, and studies confirm that snacking, not just expanding portion sizes, is driving weight gain among Americans. And it’s not just candy bars and potato chips that are to blame. Many people fall prey to tempting afternoon treats that seem healthy but aren’t. Veggie chips, “coffee” drinks, energy and protein bars, juices and smoothies and gluten-free goodies can all contain lots of fat and calories that quickly pack on pounds.

If you’re a snack-lover, consider replacing the unhealthy or nutrient-empty treats you’re having with a healthy afternoon snack. Sound overly simplistic? That’s the idea! Weight loss doesn’t have to be complex or confusing.

If you’re wondering where to find healthy, 3 p.m. snacks ideas, look no further. Driscoll’s blueberries, on their own or incorporated into a delicious snack recipe, are the ideal solution. Blueberries are high in fiber; low in fat and calories; rich in antioxidants and, best of all, naturally sweet and tasty.

Whether you’re at home, in the office or on the run, Driscoll’s has delicious, portable snacks for your every craving. With five no-fuss blueberry snack ideas, like No-Bake Blueberry Oat Bars and Blueberry Chia Pudding, portable, guilt-free snacks can be yours to enjoy every day of the week.

My series of two-minute Blueberry Snack Videos shows you how simple and satisfying healthy snacking can be. The videos are chock full of diet and nutrition tips and feature irresistible blueberry snack recipes, no culinary skills required!

I always tell my clients, “Slow and steady wins the race.” While that may sound trite, taking basic, measurable steps will help you achieve your weight loss goals.

So, to each and every one of you, I wish a successful and healthy New Year -- filled with 3 p.m. snacks that keep you on track!

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