Lose weight for your community's sake!

Need to kick-start weight loss? Benefit your health and your city by joining the Got Milk? Great American Weight Loss Challenge sponsored by the Milk Processor Education Program. The community that drops the most pounds in 12 weeks wins $25,000 to support a local walking/fitness trail. To sign up, go to 2424 milk.com. The site also offers a free weight-loss program based on research that suggests consuming 24 ounces of lowfat or fat-free milk daily may aid in weight loss.

Milk isn't a magic bullet though, says Chicago-based nutritionist Janet Helm, M.S., R.D. "If you're on a reduced-calorie diet and drinking 24 ounces daily, studies show you can lose weight by burning more fat." Up your milk intake with Helm's tips:

* Wake up with whole-grain cereal and nonfat milk.

* Order a skim latte at your coffeehouse instead of black coffee.

* Add nonfat milk to your favorite broth-based soup for a heartier lunch.

* Whip up a smoothie with nonfat milk, fruit and ice cubes for an afternoon snack.--B.G.

COPYRIGHT 2005 Weider Publications
COPYRIGHT 2005 Gale Group