Heed Dr. Ali Zentner's five slimming secrets to win the battle of the bulge once and for all.

1. Don't drink your calories.

Liquid calories add up quickly and don't provide the hunger-fighting fibre that other food does. If you are trying to lose weight, stick with calorie-free beverages, such as water, tea or black coffee.

2. Don't eat out more than once a week.

The average North American eats out between two and four times per week. It can be difficult to control your calorie intake when at a restaurant, so best to prepare the bulk of your meals at home, then treat yourself out once a week.

3. Walk for 30 minutes each day.

Moving more is essential to boosting metabolism. A simple 30-minute walk per day can improve your weight-loss results and help you keep weight off.

4. Keep a food journal.

Studies show that people who use food journals are far more successful at losing weight than those who don't. Writing down everything you eat—even for a short period—can help you become more aware of your calorie intake and areas where you can improve your diet.

5. Make better food choices. (They really are better!)

It may sound cliché, but a diet low in saturated fat and high in fibre-rich fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins really will help you achieve your weight-loss goals. As a general shopping rule, stick to the outside aisles of the supermarket.

Live Right Now is a national CBC initiative to encourage Canadians to live healthier lives. Want to be part of the movement? Visit LiveRightNow.ca.

Dr. Ali Zentner kicked butt as the fierce physician on Village on a Diet and advocates better food choices as a PC Blue Menu panellist.