One Small Change: 3 Ways to Lose 5 Pounds in a Month

No Alcohol

My one small change: "I ditched alcohol for one month"

Kellie Fagan, 25

Height: 5'0"

Current weight: 128.5

Pounds lost: 6.5

The Challenge

"My diet downfall is drinking," says Fagan. "Social events with my friends and colleagues always involve alcohol. I can end up having a dozen or more light beers, margaritas, or glasses of wine during any given week. And when I get a buzz, it's hard to resist junk food, which makes losing weight close to impossible."

The Expert Says

"Having one or two drinks a day or four-plus on the weekend -- even if it's light beer or wine -- adds hundreds, even thousands of calories to your diet," says Molly Morgan, RD, a dietitian in Vestal, New York. Also upping the calorie ante: "Alcohol lowers your inhibitions, so an order of French fries or a burger doesn't seem as bad as it normally would."

The Plan

Go for the flavorful fake-out. At your next party, have an appetizing drink that looks like a cocktail, such as sparkling water with lime. This way you won't feel bored or deprived.

Skip fruit juice. It averages at least 110 calories a glass.

Don't sip while stressed. If you're drinking to unwind after a tough day, better to target that stress in a healthy way. Head to the gym! Go for a walk!

Difficulty Factor: Moderate

"Early on, I went out for a friend's birthday and struggled not to drink," Fagan admits. "I didn't think I could do it, but I just had diet soda the entire evening. There were plenty of times over the month when I wanted a drink, but once I started waking up feeling refreshed on Mondays, instead of exhausted from a weekend of partying, it got easier. It also helped that my friends and family were 100 percent supportive."

How to Stick with It

"I created a cravings swap," says Fagan. "After a stressful day, all I wanted was a beer (okay, several). Instead, I relaxed on the couch with a bit of ice cream. The calories can't even compare to a bunch of beers."

The Unexpected Perk

"I stopped smoking, too," says Fagan. "I crave cigarettes more when I drink, so it made sense to kick the habit while I wasn't touching booze. And I'm not turning back!"

Will She Stay with It?

Not entirely. "I plan on having an occasional cocktail, but it's going to be in moderation."