Weight loss secrets from the slimmest state

Book reveals what Colorado does right, what we can do, too

DENVER, Colo. – For years, Colorado has ranked the No. 1 leanest state in the country.  So why are the people in this state skinnier than others?

"It really is about getting your metabolism to burn fat and to burn the fuel you are eating," explained Holly Wyatt, MD, associate director of Anschutz Health and Wellness Center at the University of Colorado Denver.

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Secrets of the state of slim are revealed in a new book, "The Colorado Diet."  Wyatt says the key is to watch what you eat: portion control is more important than counting calories, while you are also increasing your metabolism.

"We don't really manipulate it, what I like to say is we optimize it," Wyatt said.

She also suggests to eat often, but eat right. That means eat something every two-to-four hours, adding up to six times a day and eat breakfast within an hour of waking up—but the number one key to the mile high mind set?

"We've got to get that activity in," she added.

Wyatt says that you should eventually devote 70 minutes a day to physical activity. So, if you are watching your child's soccer practice, walk laps around the field or meet a friend for a walk instead of dinner. Also, make sure you choose your friends wisely.

"What we know is the people you hang around with tend to influence your behavior," Wyatt said, suggesting that no matter where you are, you can live and look like a Coloradan.

Another plus for Coloradans—it's cold!  According to the university of Alabama, keeping ourselves too comfortable reduces the energy we expend to stay warm in the winter.  So, turn down your thermostat this winter, save money, and turn up your metabolism.

Additional Information:

Colorado is known as the slimmest state in the country. With only 20 percent of its population suffering with obesity, Colorado natives seem to know how to keep the extra weight off.  The diet suggests that people should eat six times a day. It also states that breakfast should be eaten within the first hour after you wake up, and to eat a healthy fat twice a day. Measuring food portions is a crucial component of the diet along with eating protein and carbohydrates with every meal. Colorado does not have to be the only state with a low obesity rate. With these simple changes, everyone can maintain a healthy lifestyle and can achieve the body they are happy with.  (Source: health.yahoo.net/articles/nutrition/colorado-diet-fix-your-metabolism-weight-control-lose-20-pounds-8-weeks)