Now that the pantry is free of "bad stuff", you've got to keep it stocked with the healthful staples that will keep you on track.

So, you're ready to make your lifestyle change and eat healthier. Let's clear out that kitchen and stock it with staples that will help you cut fat and calories.

What gets the boot? Junk food like chips and cookies, regular frozen meals, fried frozen foods like fish sticks, regular condiments like mayo and salad dressings, ice cream, and chocolate candy.

Uh-oh ... is your kitchen virtually empty now? Then print out this list and head for the grocery store, because you need The Top 50 Foods for Fat Fighters!

1. Fresh fruits and vegetables

   Condiments
   

2. reduced-fat salad dressing
3. light mayo
4. salsa
5. Butter Buds
6. vinegar
7. cocktail sauce
8. reduced-sugar fruit spread or jam
9. soy sauce

No matter how many bad habits you have right now, any time is a good time to make a fresh start: Here are some ideas to get you going in the right direction.

If you've drifted away from the direct path to your weight loss goal lately, join me as we take a look at some ways to ease yourself back into living like a "loser"!
Television and Temptation
We're not just talking about those commercials for the latest $1 hamburger at the fast food joint around the corner! Didn't you hate it when your mom called the television "the boob tube" as if you were a complete idiot for watching it so much? Turns out she was on to something... at least when it comes to the part of our brain that tells us enough is enough. When we tune in to the "X-Files" marathons on Tuesday nights (or whatever your TV addiction might be!) and sit down with some munchies, it's a virtual feeding frenzy.

No matter what diet you're following, there are a few foods that anyone serious about losing weight should give the boot!

Culprit 1: White Bread
White bread is really tasty. Especially when there's a nice layer of peanut butter one slice and grape jelly on the other. There's a good reason we love white bread -- it's what we grew up on!

Plus, it's only human to like the taste of it better than whole grain varieties.

Why? It's refined ... which basically means ... it's sugar.

Even the "lite" versions of white bread aren't such a good idea. White bread digests much quicker than whole grain and therefore leaves you feeling hungry much sooner.

15 Facts for Weight Loss Newbies: Part 1

1. Your weight affects you in many ways other than your appearance:

• Your overall quality of life;
• self-esteem;
• health risks;
• depression;
• and physical abilities are also influenced.

Think of all the positive changes you can experience by losing weight.

2. You will need to see your doctor for a physical if you haven't had one recently and you really should get her approval before starting a weight loss regime.

3. You should ask yourself these questions as you begin: