10 Ways to Lose 10 Pounds

Everyone has an idea in their head as to what their "ideal" body is ... (iStock)

But sometimes, no matter how hard you try, you just can't shake those last few pounds. Here are some tips on how to jump-start your weight-loss plan.  (iStock)

Cutting 500 calories a day sheds one pound per week. Have the hamburger, but skip the fries and the large bun. Try having a side salad and using reduced-calorie bread or a smaller reduced-calorie bun. Also, instead of a soda, order a bottled water with your meal.  (iStock)

You can't go wrong with a meal of omega 3-rich salmon and salad. Also, if you modify your snacks to include fruit, fiber and protein, you will stay full longer and provide your body with essential vitamins and minerals. Also, there are a variety of low-calorie, light foods and beverages on the market that allow you to enjoy your favorite foods and beverages without sacrificing the taste. (AP)

Aerobic exercises such as brisk walking, jogging and cycling will burn the most calories. Aim for at least five days of moderate-intensity exercise during which you burn at least 300 calories. (iStock)

Additional physical activity (other than planned exercise) can help burn more than 200 calories a day. A 10-minute walk around your office building can burn approximately 75 to 100 calories. Taking the stairs and parking in the farthest parking spot can help burn between 50 to 100 calories. (iStock)

Know what the calories per serving and recommended serving sizes are. Look for hidden ingredients like sugars, corn syrup and oils - all of which can pack a caloric punch. Also, check for how many "servings" are contained in what your eating or drinking. You may have bought one cookie, but that single cookie may be broken down into two servings on its label.  (AP)

Don't do the same exercises time and time again. If you find yourself doing a lot of cardio workouts, add some strength-training and weight-bearing exercises to your routine. Strength training is important because it builds muscle, which facilitates weight loss/maintenance. In fact, the more muscle mass you have, the greater your resting metabolic rate is, and the greater amount of calories you burn at rest each day. (iStock)

Don’t tell yourself you are not allowed to eat certain things. This will only lead to cravings and overindulgence. Eat what you want, but eat it in appropriate portions. (iStock)

Alcohol is full of empty calories. Sugary drinks like margaritas can pack as many as 600 calories a pop. If you're going to drink limit yourself to one a day for women and two a day for men and stick with wine or light beer.  (iStock)

Keep a food diary. Write down everything you eat along with the calories. You'd be surprised how quickly the calories add up. This will give you a better perspective on what you should eat and what you should skip. (AP)

Rather than eating 3 large meals each day, try eating six small meals of 200-300 calories. Not only is it easier for your body to digest smaller meals, but every time you eat, your metabolism speeds up. Plus you'll be eating more often making you less likely to binge at mealtime.  (AP)