Cancer

Emotional and watery, you're a shape- changer, associated with the moon's waxing and waning. You may have been blessed with the moon's curvaciousness, but that means you have a tendency to become too rounded.

Your self-conscious nature creates mood and food swings, especially when you feel insecure. You eat for comfort when you are down, then eat to celebrate when you 're up. Your maternal instincts are powerful, but they can bind you to bad habits, and you may retain weight after childbirth.

Since you have a fertile imagination, look in the mirror and envisage a much slimmer version of you. Your willingness to try alternatives stands you in good stead diet-wise, but you're at your most pathetic when you feel sorry for yourself.

Foods
Although you hate waste, don't nibble the kids' or your partner's leftovers.

Friendly foods:
Low-fat yoghurt, hake, fresh fruit.

No-go foods:
You're a cream fanatic, so avoid eating too much dairy. Egg mayonnaise and apple pie are also out.

Diets:
You love cooking, so use the opportunity of a new diet to experiment with food. Get the whole family involved for your emotional support, and make a healthy lunch a key part of your daily routine.

Exercise:
Nothing turns you off more than the smell of gyms. Go for activities that interest you, especially DIY around the house. Swimming is great for firming breasts and arms, and because Cancer rules the stomach, try belly dancing.

Zodiac action plan:
The lunar rhythm is your key to slimming success, so make a start on the full moon and set target dates on 25 and 31 January.