While fad diets do not work for maintaining a healthy weight over the long term, eating healthfully not only works to get you in shape, but also keeps you fit. The challenge is in choosing a diet plan that will help you succeed at losing weight. However, not only must you determine how many calories you can consume in one day, you must also consider factors such as lifestyle and activity level. Having a clear goal is key.
Step 1
Select a weight loss plan that focuses on the types of healthy foods you like. You are not likely to stick to a program that only offers food combinations that you find less palatable. Any healthy eating plan should offer a balance of foods, which will supply the essential nutrients you need to stay healthy.
Step 2
Ask yourself if a particular eating plan will be practical for you to follow. Keep in mind that you are not simply dieting. You are changing your eating patterns for the rest of your life. For example, if you like food and get hungry often, a liquid protein diet is not going to work for you. Likewise, if you are not a big meat eater, neither the Atkins nor South Beach diets would be sensible choices in your case, even in the short-term.
Step 3
Choose a meal plan that fits your lifestyle. If you do not mind having your meals planned for you, a fixed-menu diet may be just what you need. This type of meal plan is easy to follow because it provides a list of foods that you can eat. The major disadvantage is that you do not get to make choices. On the other hand, if you prefer to make your own choices when it comes to what you eat, a flexible diet program might work better for you.
Step 4
Set your goal for losing no more than one or two pounds each week. Lowering the number of calories you consume each day depends on your weight and activity level. You have to burn more calories than you eat in order to lose weight, so begin by estimating how many daily calories you are presently consuming. Once you have a better idea about how many calories you can eat, focus on combining a healthful balance of foods rather than counting every calorie.
Step 5
Plan nutritious meals by using the Food Guide Pyramid as your guide. Read food labels so that you know whether you are getting the Recommended Daily Allowance of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals and fiber from the foods you eat.
Step 6
Learn how to control what you eat. Consider buying prepackaged meals for a while, as this can help teach you appropriate portion sizes. The downside is that it can be expensive and may be beyond what your food budget can support.
Tips and Warnings
- Check with your doctor before you begin any new diet plan. This is important at any age, but particularly if you are older than 50 or have high blood pressure or another health issue such as diabetes, heart disease or kidney disease. Even certain neurological disorders can make some diets unsafe to follow.
Member Comments