If you're embarking on a new diet plan, don't starve yourself with tiny portions of foods you hate. You're more likely to stick to your diet if you are allowed to indulge in the foods you enjoy. An effective diet should incorporate a variety of delicious, healthy foods that leave you feeling full and satisfied after meals. Consult your doctor before making changes in your current diet plan, particularly if you have a health condition.
Step 1
Eat your meals slowly. Savoring your food will help you enjoy the experience of eating, even if your portion is slightly smaller than what you would normally eat. If you gobble your food, it may take 20 minutes before you realize you're actually full, so you may be more likely to snack or eat a second helping.
Step 2
Eat five or six small meals during the day rather than a couple of large ones. Although eating more meals may seem counter-intuitive, eating about every three hours will keep your blood sugar level up and curb your hunger.
Step 3
Eat about 200 calories of your favorite foods every day. Instead of throwing away all of your ice cream, allow yourself a very small portion as a reward for sticking to your diet plan.
Step 4
Fill up on foods that are high in water, like lettuce, broccoli, zucchini and green beans. These will keep you full but are low in calories.
Step 5
Enjoy healthy snacks several times a day. Keep your favorite healthy snacks, like low-fat string cheese, sliced apples, carrot sticks and celery sticks on hand in the refrigerator to enjoy whenever you feel hunger pangs.
Tips and Warnings
- Pair your eating plan with a daily exercise program.
- Avoid diets that involve eating one food group over and over. These are fad diets that do not provide sustainable weight loss.
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