Shirley Perryman, nutrition specialist at Colorado State University in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, wants you to know whether you’ve prepared for it or not, “swimsuit season is nearly here.” 

How can you beat the bloat in time for the warm weather? Behold her Swimsuit Diet strategy.

* Dump the water weight. Research shows that we tend to eat the same amount of food regardless of the calorie content. Use this advantage and choose foods that are higher in fiber and water content in place of low-volume, calorie-dense foods.

* Turn off the boob tube. You’re more likely to overeat if you grub in front of the TV or computer.

* Eat at home. Most people eat a third of their calories away from home, so when you're dining out, look for more healthful choices before ordering.

* Order the small. You might be getting more for your money, but do you really want the calories that come with it?

* Hide the goodies. Studies show that when more food is available, people eat more. Clear your cupboards at home and desk drawers at work of calorie-dense snacks.

For more tips and tricks, check out Shirley monthly nutrition column here.