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What is a quick way to lose weight before the new year? 

Contrary to popular belief, there is no healthy way to rapidly lose weight. It is a process, and requires a life style change. There are a few things that you can do to get a quick start to the process, though. Drinking more water and less soda is one major step. Making healthier food choices and exercising regularly are also big steps. Keep in mind that when you start exercising, your body will retain water and weight loss will slow initially. Stick with it and you will see results. Also, if you limit how late you eat at night, it will help the process. Overall, the two most important things are self-discipline and commitment.

Exercise, reduce caloric intake, especially refined carbohydrates and fats, and drink lots of water.  In a recent publication there was an article that three 10 minute walks/runs are as effective as one 30 minute one.  It seems easier to find 10 minutes, so this news is good for many who are busy.  Also, doctors suggest that you finish your eating early in the evening (around 8:00 p.m.); in this way, you have time to burn some of the calories before retiring for the evening.

In addition, our culture can get us in the habit of eating three meals a day; the largest meal is consumed at night. Research has shown that consuming six small meals a day (each meal consists of three, fist-size portions) will boost your metabolism and shrink your stomach, resulting in a "fuller" feeling after eating without consuming as much food. Exercising and resistance training also burns calories while increasing your metabolic rate even after your done with the workout!

Unfortunately, there are no safe ways to rapidly lose weight. In the case that you do choose a non-safe approach, remember that altering your metabloism with weight-loss pills or other "quick-fix" solutions can harmfully affect your long-term metabolic rate.

I recommend that utilize exercise as much as possible if you are looking to drop the pounds before the new year. I have to agree with eating several smaller meals than three big meals: it will definitely allow you to not overeat and should also help with caloric intake.

Drink as many fluids as possible, as well. Drinking water constantly throughout the day will help your body stay hydrated, and you will undoubtedly feel better.

Back to the original question, however: I recommend that you utilize swimming to drop pounds. Swimming provides a total body workout and is very easy on the muscles. If you swim three days a week and participate in another exercise activity on the two other days, you should be good to go.

Also, if you currently consume alcohol, quit! Alcohol has a lot of unnecessary calories that will definitely hinder your chances at dropping pounds.