How to Choose a Diet :

© Healthy Diets Inc.

Set realistic goals
What do you want to get out of your diet? Are you trying to lose weight, lower cholesterol or control blood sugar? Think of your new goals as a chance to adopt healthy eating habits instead of a diet. A "goal weight" was established for you by Healthy Diets on the day of your exam. Review the information provided in your health summary report regarding your optimal daily calorie intake for weight loss or maintenance.

Don’t give up your favorites
If a diet asks you to give up one of your favorite foods, the chances of you sustaining this diet in the long-term are not good. Instead, find a diet that includes smaller portions of your favorite foods. Limiting yourself to smaller portions and healthier snacks can make a big difference toward reaching your weight loss goal.

Choose a diet that fits your lifestyle
Choosing a diet that can be a part of your lifestyle increases your chances of success. If the plan encourages six meals daily and you struggle to eat three, it is probably not the diet for you, no matter how healthy it is. Evaluate the aspects of each diet and be sure it matches the way you like to eat.

Educate yourself There are many diets to choose from.
Healthy Diets provided a diet plan for you which was included in your health summary report. You can also learn about other diets designed for your specific condition. For example, if you are trying to control your blood pressure read about low sodium diets such as the DASH diet or read about low fat diets if you are trying to lower your cholesterol. Learning about the details of whatever diet you choose will give you a better understanding of how to make a diet work in the long-term.

Be willing to work for it
Do not trust a diet that promises fast weight loss with the expectation of long term benefit. These changes will not happen overnight, but if you are willing to change your eating behaviors and level of physical activity, you will be able to reach your goal.

Don’t forget about exercise
Exercise is a key element to any weight loss program. Find an activity you enjoy and that is compatible with your current fitness level. Begin at your own pace. Work toward 60 minutes of continuous exercise five days a week. The more you do the better you will feel.