March 10, 2009

"I have a list of things that make me feel better that are not food related. I find that exercise helps me blow off steam, so I take baths for stress relief, and as a treat after a tough workout. As a reward for your hard work, get a manicure or pedicure, buy a new book or a pair of earrings. And to tame tension, try a massage."

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By Liz Plosser

There's nothing quite like the phrase, "No thanks, I'm on a diet!" to bring a dinner party or happy hour to a screeching halt. But there's no reason your healthy-eating plan has to be a downer for you and your fellow celebrants. Use these sly strategies from Keri Gans, R.D., a nutritionist in New York City, the next time you're among not-so-health-conscious pals.

Situation: Dinner out with friends
Sly strategy: While the group is mulling over the menu, drop a subtle hint about your light order so no one can accuse you of being a killjoy. "Say, 'I have been eating so much meat lately, I really feel like a piece of fish.' Or 'I had a huge, late lunch, so I'm just going to get a salad,'" Gans recommends.

Situation: Holidays at a relative's house
Sly strategy: The simple words "No thank you. I'm full" should work like magic when your aunt tries to serve you seconds. And if she plops more food on your plate anyway? Place your utensils facedown on the dish, pop in a breath mint and move the plate away. Each of these actions signals that you're finished.

Situation: Office birthday party
Sly strategy: If you're following the Best Life plan, you'll be given a certain number of treat calories, called Anything Goes calories, that you can put towards indulgent foods like cake everyday. Or, you could skip the cake and make yourself a mug of warm tea instead. Sipping tea will keep your mouth every bit as occupied as that forgettable piece of cake. Then focus on networking around the room: Make a game of how many people you can chat with.

Situation: Happy hour with coworkers
Sly strategy: "Order diet soda or sparkling water with a lemon or lime slice," says Gans. Even though you're going sans spirits, the festive garnish will make it feel like you're still 100-percent part of the party.

Discreet Dieting Tips, and other weight-loss and fitness tips from Bob Greene, Oprah's trainer.

	For more stay-the-course tips and advice, join Bob Greene's TheBestLife.com. You'll get access to loads of articles and videos, meal plans and a database of light and tasty recipes.

Of all the minor gym-induced aches and pains you'll experience, a blister may be the most irksome. Get back, er, on your feet with these speedy-recovery tips.

Don't pop it. Puncturing a blister can lead to infection so try to leave it alone. Most blisters will simply go away on their own within a week; new skin forms under the affected area and the fluid is absorbed.

Keep it clean. Clean the area with warm, soapy water, and apply antibacterial ointment to prevent infection.

Protect it. Try to keep it covered with a regular bandage (for everyday use) and tape (during exercise).

Check on it. If you notice any pus, red or warm skin surrounding the blister, or red streaks leading away from the blister, check in with your doctor to make sure it's not infected.