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How to Make Up for Your Past Health Mistakes
There's no sense obsessing over poor choices when there are ways you can make amends for them today.
O, The Oprah Magazine  |  From the August 2012 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine
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Yo-Yo Dieting

Most Americans who lose weight on a diet regain about a third of the pounds within one year. Worse, this yo-yo effect appears to be hard on the cardiovascular system. Research has linked weight cycling to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

How to atone: From this point on, commit yourself to slow and steady progress; it's the only healthy way to slim down. A national survey published last year identified several practices helpful for reaching your ideal weight and staying there, including: (1) limit carbohydrates; (2) practice portion control; (3) plan before you go grocery shopping; and (4) read nutrition labels.

Next: The vice-o-meter: Dr. Oz helps you kick your worst health habits
Printed from Oprah.com on Thursday, May 23, 2013
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