Slim down for summer swim suit

Getting into a favorite swimsuit may now be a bit easier, thanks to Harley Pasternak, diet and fitness expert and author of the book "The 5 Factor Diet." Here are his five tips for safely losing weight.

Power up the pantry. When Pasternak starts working with someone new, one of the first things he has them do is some housecleaning in their pantry. Making sure you have the ingredients for healthy meals each week will help keep you on track. Hit the store once a week and stock up on plenty of fruits with their skins, lowsugar beverages, proteins like skinless chicken or salmon, and veggies.

Eat well, eat often. Eat five small meals throughout the day. A body is like a furnace, and food is the fuel that stokes the fires and keeps the metabolism working throughout the day. Eating throughout the day will help keep you full and thinking and feeling your best.

Count to five before each meal. Make sure each meal meets five simple criteria- a lean protein, healthy carbs, fiber from fruits and vegetables, healthy fats and a lowsugar beverage. The beverage doesn't have to be water. There are plenty of options, like sparkling or lowsugar flavored waters. Pasternak also picks up meal replacements such protein bars.

Get moving. Dieting is half the battle. To truly get into shape, incorporate at least 25 to 30 minutes of activity five times a week. Check with a doctor before starting any fitness plan to make sure there aren't any restrictions on hitting the gym and getting in that important mix of cardio and strength training.

Keep a journal. Whether you are working to meet individual goals or trying to trim down an entire family, a journal can be a good way to keep track of favorite recipes and keep motivated while working toward goals. A journal can be a great way to keep track of successes and progress.

This story is provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.