If you are feeling bad because your last diet didn't work, try these tips to not only lose weight, but lose it for good:

1. Keep a Food Diary

For at least five days and up to a week, keep a pen and paper handy and write down everything you eat; how much, where and when you ate it and who you ate with and try to write it down as you eat it. Most people find that when they try to remember everything at the end of the day, they leave something out.

Some people will not eat something because they know they are going to have to write it down. Be completely honest with yourself. You don't need to show anyone the results. Particular environments and people can often trigger certain eating behaviors that are apparent when you use a food log.

2. Don't Eat Too Little

Very low calorie diets will help you lose weight but they're extremely difficult to maintain. You'll gradually become tired and irritable, lack the energy to exercise, and people won't want to eat with you because the long list of foods you can't eat makes restaurant menus and meals at home unsuitable for your overly strict diet.

3. Neither Feast Nor Fast

When you skip breakfast, you could end up eating more total calories throughout the day and you might make less healthy choices. Try to eat at least 3 meals a day. Optimally you should spread your calories throughout 6 small meals per day. This will keep your metabolism going and your blood sugar level even to help avoid binging.

4. Freshness Counts

The packaging and processing generally found in convenience foods generally reduce the nutrient values and substantially raise the caloric content. Try preparing fresh fruits and vegetables in bulk on the weekends to make healthy choices readily available.

5. Hydrate Your Way to Quicker Weight Loss

Drink water instead of coffee, tea, or soft drinks and you should be drinking enough water per day so that your urine is nearly clear.

6. Eat Less, Exercise More

The great thing about food diaries is they show you where you can cut out a number of extra calories. Many people eat out of habit when they are not even hungry so be aware of this and listen to your body. Eat when you start to feel hungry and consume a controlled portion.


All of these tips will help you take the steps you need to lose weight so you can be fit and healthy.