This time of year it becomes more challenging to maintain your normal routines. Sometimes good food choices and exercise are neglected when our lives become busier than normal with shopping, holiday travel and family gatherings. With holiday meals, parties and skipped workouts, you may be feeling sluggish and perhaps like you have put on a couple of pounds. Take this time to get back on track with these easy steps to jump start your weight loss.

Ready to get a jump start on the new year? This is an easy seven day challenge that will have you feeling lighter and more energized by the end of the week.

It is recommended that you check with your physician before starting this or any other nutrition and exercise program.

Drink 16 oz of lemon water on an empty stomach after getting out of bed in the morning( Experts suggest this is a great way to elevate your metabolism each day) Also, drink 16 oz of lemon water before lunch and your evening meal

Eliminate bread, sweets and alcohol for the next seven days

Drink green tea with all your meals

Add two ten minute workouts to your day

Avoid all packaged food for seven days

Include a lean meat (the size of your palm), a green veggie and a piece of fruit with each meal

Drink this detox smoothie for one of your snacks for the next seven days

Detox Green Smoothie
1 sliced organic apple
handful of kale
1 stalk of celery
¼ of avocado
8 oz of coconut milk
1 tablespoon of chia seeds
1 scoop of all natural protein powder (optional)
Blend until smooth
(makes 1-2 servings)

10 minute workout
Do this workout 1-2 times per day. It would be ideal to do it right after getting out of bed in the morning and then in the evening about an hour after your last meal.

1 minute of jumping jacks
1 minute of burpees
1 minute of jump lunges
1 minute of plank
1 minute of crunches
(Repeat 2 times)

You are going to feel great after this seven day jump start. Feel free to continue for another week if you would like. This program will leave you feeling rejuvenated and ready to start the new year with a bang!