Old habits die hard. Unfortunately, new habits die easy without persistence and reinforcement. Changing eating habits may seem like a daunting task, but if you break it up into small steps and keep at it, you can make your new healthy habits stick.

Here are some small steps that can make a big difference:

• Keep a journal of what you’re eating, when and why. Knowing yourself will help you make positive changes that will stick.
  
  
• Change one thing at a time. Trying to do it all at once is overwhelming.
  
  
• Involve family and friends in your goals. Their support will help you succeed.
  
  
• Slow down! Put your fork down between bites. You’ll eat less.
  
  
• Make mealtime time for a meal. Turn off the computer or TV. Step away and focus on what you’re eating.
  
  
• Question excuses. Some barriers to change are valid, but many are excuses for avoiding the unfamiliar. Understanding excuses helps you abandon them.
  
  
• Stock your kitchen with healthy snacks such as fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and low-fat cheese. Remove unhealthy temptations.
  
  
• Control portions. Instead of serving meals family-style, you may want to dish up the appropriate serving in the kitchen. No seconds.
  
  
• Have fun. Join a healthy cooking class. Try an ethnic restaurant. Change is also an opportunity to discover wonderful new things.
  
  
• Always rushing in the morning? Pack your breakfast and lunch the night before.
  
  
• Eat regularly. When you feel “starved,” you’re more likely to make poor choices.
  
  
• Drink plenty of water. It improves how your body functions and helps you feel satisfied between meals.