Q. I've been on just about every fad diet. I have totally ruined my metabolism and no matter how litte I eat or try to exercise, I gain weight, especially around my middle and hips. What are some things that I can do to give my metabolism a boost? I already walk everyday.
- lilpea20

A. This is one of the effects of yo-yo dieting. I recall when I was young, my mother doing the same thing until she claimed she would gain weight if she took in more than 1000 calories (this is anecdotal, not scientific though!)

I think you are making some positive progress by walking everyday. Exercise is helpful in restoring your metabolic rate. You may also want to ask your physician to check your thyroid function, since that can be affected by yo-yo dieting as well.

In addition to your walking, consider some strength/resistance training. Muscle tissue is more metabolically active than fat tissue so again, you will be burning more calories if you have more lean mass.

As far as your diet goes, concentrate on healthful choices instead of just low-calorie ones. Eat more frequent, nutritious meals/snacks and include a variety of foods that you enjoy. Work on eating slower and responding to your body's signals when you are full.
- Connie