ALABAMA A&M and AUBURN UNIVERSITIES

For more information,
contact Donna Reynolds, Extension Assistant Editor

CONFIDENCE MAY BE THE KEY TO DIETING

AUBURN, JAN. 22---Baseball is supposed to be America's favorite pastime, but it often appears the real favorite pastime is dieting.

While there is no single key to successful dieting, confidence is one important factor, says Dr. Barbara Struempler, a nutritionist with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

"The goal of dieting is to change one's eating behavior," she says. "Dieters need to feel successful if they are going to have the confidence they need to make dieting work."

Like all dieting advice, this advice seems easier to say than to do. Struempler offers some practical advice that should lead to success.

"Setting realistic goals and gaining confidence in one's own ability to keep from overeating are keys to successful dieting," says Struempler. "Dieters must constantly practice choosing low-calorie, low-fat foods. And, it does take practice."

One of the most difficult tasks for dieters is choosing the right foods when eating out. It can be done. Struempler points out that even fast-food restaurants now offer low-calorie, low- fat foods. If the dieter can try these menu selections for only a week or two, they are bound to see weight loss, and that willlead to an increase in confidence.

One of the most effective ways to diet is to do so with a partner. Partners encourage each other and helps dieters be accountable for following the plan. Participants in weight loss classes, learn how to select low-calorie foods. They also learn coping responses that prevent overeating. Using these steps repeatedly helps dieters build self-confidence.

Class members also seem to be more successful because they aren't trying to do it alone. Struempler emphasizes that having people around who are sharing the same experience is very helpful.

"Informal group sessions that allow dieters to share experiences are a valuable teaching tool. Once dieters see that success is possible, it becomes easier for some to reach their weight loss goals. Hearing about other people's successes and having others serve as role models is important," she says.

One major problem with group diet programs is that when the program ends, so does the diet in most cases. Many people can lose weight while getting encouragement from others, but it isn't so easy when the group disappears. That's why it's important for dieters to gain confidence in their ability to resist overeating.

"Obviously, those with the most confidence in their ability to change their behavior tend to be the ones who are most able to reduce their fat and calorie intake after the program ends."