Sarah Ferguson's Top 5 Stay-Slim Tips

Sept. 15 -- Losing weight isn't easy, especially for people on the go whose busy lives can't be put on hold for a strict diet.

But there are ways to make eating on the run healthier and less fattening, says Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, who is also a spokeswoman for Weight Watchers.

Ferguson struggled with her weight since childhood. As an adult, she overate to compensate for emotional problems. Because of her public status, she was often publicly derided for her weight problems and clothing, and tabloids referred to her as the "Duchess of Pork."

But the name-calling is over now. After she and Prince Andrew divorced in 1996, she moved to the United States and slimmed down. The turning point was when she got a job as a spokeswoman for Weight Watchers, Ferguson says.

She appeared on Good Morning America to explain five ways for losing weight and keeping it off. They are part of Weight Watchers' new Flex Points Program, designed to keep pace with busy lives.

The five tips are simple solutions to everyday dieting obstacles.

Obstacle No. 1: The False Start: Skipping Breakfast

You should not start the day by skipping breakfast. Instead, eat a breakfast sandwich that combines carbohydrates and protein to give you energy, and staying power. An egg and cheese sandwich on whole grain bread is an ideal choice.

Obstacle No. 2: The "Second Breakfast" Meeting

You have a breakfast meeting at work, and even though you already ate breakfast, you are bombarded with tasty choices. You can eat, but watch your portions.

Sip water or hot tea, and take half and quarter portions of foods instead of the whole thing. Ask for fruit or bring your own. Spread jam instead of butter on bagels or muffins. The ideal choice is a small bowl of fruit salad.

Obstacle No. 3: Lunch is like a Sandwich: It Fits in Between Appointments

Don't skip lunch because hunger will make you want to snack or overeat later.Keep lunch simple but filling with what Weight Watchers calls "the portable lunch."