July 1, 2013 | 3 minute read

We are now halfway through the New American Plate Challenge, a program geared to help people get started with, or continue, their weight loss. This was our first NAP Challenge and we’re excited about all the positive outcomes and responses. Challengers are reporting eating more vegetables, moving more and losing weight.

One goal of the program is for challengers to help out one another with tips and encouragement. I’m sharing these creative tips and inspiring messages from challengers, so if you are working toward healthier habits, you can benefit too. Here are some of the tips and ideas challengers have shared:

On eating more veggies and fruit:

“I bought a mandolin last week and it’s been lots of fun cutting vegetables (and fruit) into fun shapes.  I’m more likely to eat veggies that are already cut up and even more likely to eat them if they are sliced up finely.” (Malkah)

“One of the things that I have tried since starting the challenge has been to eat veggies with breakfast.  I have discovered that tomatoes, salsa or asparagus go great with eggs in the morning.” (Kathleen)

“I lost two pounds this week. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains has kept me satisfied without being hungry!” (Patricia G).

 On moving more:

“I am getting up earlier and immediately putting on my workout clothes. I give myself 10 minutes of the activity to decide it I want to continue with it, or quit, once you get dressed and get started, it’s feels silly for me to quit, so it has worked so far.” (A)

“I live on a farm where we raise cattle. I would drive my truck to the barn to feed the cows everyday. This week I have started walking from the barn to open the  gate where the calves we hand feed are and then back to the barn to get the feed on the truck. I think I am walking about 1/2 mile each day that I do this.” (Judy)

On cutting unwanted snacking:

“When I just have to have something to eat, (I eat) …frozen fruit …because you can let it dissolve in your mouth. It’s great in the summer to make you feel cool and to quench  thirst, My personal favorites are peaches and strawberries -no sugar added.” (J1)

On staying motivated:

“I write down everything I eat. Keeps me accountable.” (Michelle)

“My walking buddy and I have registered for a 3 km fun run 10 days from now and this seems to be an exciting goal to motivate us to continue on.” (J2)

How do you meet any of these challenges? Please share your tips, ideas and what motivates you.