Beach-ready Body

It's already May and the summer swimsuit season is right around the corner. So how do you ready yourself for being scantily clad at the shore or around the pool -- and fast? The good news is there is still time to slim down and firm up before you don the bikini. It is reasonable to lose about 8 pounds in 4 to 6 weeks. A loss of 8 pounds can make a big difference in how you look in a swimsuit and other summer clothing.

* Skip the sweets and packaged foods. Stick to fresh fruits; several small, light meals; and plenty of water.

* Get out there and sweat. You will need to exercise to shed the weight. Aim for 30 to 60 minutes a day.

* Write down everything that you eat so you can see where you over-indulge.

* Avoid gas-producing foods or eating/drinking in a manner that can trap air in your digestive system. This will only make you look bloated.

* Skip salty foods that could cause you to retain water.