Counting Calories? Don't Dodge Your Friends

Obesity can cause major health problems, but if you're sitting at home alone on the weekends because you're afraid of social events full of calorific foods, think again. Seems lonelieness is actually worse for you than obesity. Loneliness increases your chances of heart attack, cancer, drug dependence and more.

Moral of the story? Don't give up your friends -- just learn how to navigate social situations in a healthy way. Here are some tips:

• Eat a large, healthy salad before you go out to cut down on any hunger-induced bad choices.
  
• Load your plate with fresh fruits and veggies, leaving just a teeny tiny space for anything else.
  
• Suggest outings that don't revolve around food -- such as a walking tour or a craft session.