ONSURF

1. Only shop on a full stomach. "When you're hungry, you're more tempted to buy high-fat foods," says Jennifer Andrus, R.D., a nutritionist in New York City. And go when you're not in a rush. "That way you'll have more time to read food labels, which will help you make healthier choices," she says.

2. Trade ground beef for ground chicken or turkey. Your burgers and tacos will taste just as meaty, but you'll slash the fat in every bite.

3. Look for the low-fat version of your favorite cheese. "The taste and texture of low-fat cheeses have vastly improved over the past few years," says Andrus. "Plus, you save about six fat grams a serving."

4. Ditto ice cream. Purchase low-fat ice cream or frozen yogurt instead of the regular kind. And get a box of individual-size bars instead of a tub. The reason: You're less likely to have more than one bar, unlike the tub where it's easy to keep sticking your spoon back for another bite.

5. Carefully scan food labels for trans fats. A great way to eat healthy is to simply put back on the shelf any food that contains these artery-clogging, man-made fats, says Hillary Irwin, R.D., a nutritionist a New York City. Kraft has eliminated trans fat from many of its products like Wheat Thins, Graham Crackers, Triscuits and Snackwell cookies. Campbells has also stopped making products with trans fat like Pepperidge Farm Goldfish.

6. Frozen meals are okay if you choose healthy ones. Swap regular frozen macaroni and cheese or pizza dinners for their low-fat counterparts. "You can find substitutes that taste just as good," says Irwin who suggests trying healthy brands such as Amy's Organic, Lean Cuisine, and Healthy Choice. And these are a great way to keep portions in control. "The prepackaged portions keep the amount of fat you're consuming in check, but the servings are hearty so you don't feel deprived" Irwin says.

7. Say yes to potato chips—the baked kind. "There are so many flavors out there now and by swapping regular chips for baked you'll cut your fat intake by 80 percent," says Andrus.

8. Try fat-free Greek yogurt. "The thick texture of Greek yogurt makes it very satisfying, so you feel like you're really indulging," says Irwin. Add fresh fruit like frozen blueberries to sweeten it. The brand Fage Total is available at most grocery stores.

9. Only buy bread with fiber. "Bread should have three grams of fiber a slice," says Andrus. The fiber will help keep you full and you'll consume less fat throughout the day. Look for "whole-wheat flour" listed as the first ingredient.

10. Make room for only one splurge per trip. If you know you get to pick out one treat, you'll really think about what you want it to be, instead of mindlessly throwing in a couple bags of candy or cookies.