Top Tips From More Big Losers

Tiffany Way, 48, Kingsland, GA: Lost 80 pounds

1. Kick the junk food habit. “I like to eat while watching TV. Now, instead of bingeing on junk, I’ll peel a grapefruit because it takes time.”

2. Pick protein to overcome a plateau. “I lose more weight if I mix things up. If the scale is stuck, I’ll eat more lowfat protein—tuna, Egg Beaters, beans—and fewer carbs. Protein keeps me fuller between meals, too.”

Tanya Crews, 42, Boston: Lost 70 pounds

1. Speak first to stay on track. “When I eat out with friends, I always order first so I’m not influenced by their choices.”

2. Stop all-or-nothing thinking. “You don’t have to give up the foods you love. When I crave fried clams, I work them into my diet without going overboard. Otherwise, I’ll end up consuming just as many calories with other, less satisfying stuff.”

Patty Brown, 47, Hollister, CA: Lost 71 pounds

1. Eat between meals. “Waiting too long to eat is a recipe for eating too much. I definitely make better choices when I’m not starving!”

2. Take it step by step. “I use a pedometer when I walk so I can see how I’m doing at a glance. Now, I get in at least 10,000 steps every day.”