Innovative Ideas to Help Someone Stick to a Diet Plan

Innovative Ideas to Help Someone Stick to a Diet Plan
Photo Credit Max Oppenheim/Digital Vision/Getty Images

There is much science to guide you in planning effective strategies for weight loss, but following the information you find often is easier said than done. Start with weight loss methods based on sound science, then look for tips and tricks that will keep you on track. Experiment with a variety of techniques for maintaining your eating plan to increase your chances of dieting success.

Eat Geographically

It's easy to get off track when dieting if you accept a snack at the office, grab lunch in your car or eat in front of the computer or TV. Make a pledge to eat all your meals in one or two places, such as your dining room at home and break room at work. This will help prevent overeating, which occurs when you're distracted with other tasks. If you plan on having two or more snacks a day, eat them in the same place at the same time each day.

Graze

Grazing requires you to eat throughout the day, having as many as six meals and snacks. You shouldn't eat more when you graze, just more often. You're less likely to overeat if you include breakfast, according to MayoClinic.com. When you skip breakfast, your body's reaction to the long fast between dinner and lunch causes an insulin reaction that leads to more fat storage and weight gain. Eat breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a snack mid-morning and mid-afternoon.

Pre-Package Snacks

If you can't give up your favorite snacks, control how much of them you eat. Take snacks out of large boxes and bags and put smaller servings into sandwich bags. When you eat snacks, you'll know you're overdoing it if you open a second baggie of treats.

Keep a Food Journal

It's hard to forget about that candy bar you had at work or an extra trip to the buffet at lunch if you have to write it down and show it to a friend. Keep a written daily record of your eating habits and let a support friend or family member read it, comparing your written plan to your results. If you cheat one day, you may be more motivated to make up for it the next day if you know you have to answer to your weight loss partner.

References

Article reviewed by Jaime Reese Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments