There is no one perfect solution for everyone when it comes to choosing a diet to live by long-term. Some people love Atkins, while others feel it is too restrictive and would rather try Protein Power or the South Beach approach. How do you know which diet is right for you?
1. Talk to your doctor, if he or she has experience in nutrition. If not, ask for a referral to a registered dietician. You may have unique health concerns, such as a high risk for diabetes or heart disease that should influence the type of diet you eat.
2. Think about your food preferences. If a diet calls for you to completely eliminate all carbs, and you love bread and pasta, the likelihood of your success is low. You may have better success with a diet that allows you to have them in moderation.
3. Do your homework. Just because a diet worked for your mailman’s sister doesn’t mean it is the right diet for you. Some diets – even those published in mainstream books – are not healthy. Look for and review scientific evidence backing up the diet's effectiveness. Read more than the promotional literature for the diet.
4. Get moving. All diet plans should also encourage some component of physical activity to help you maintain your weight loss down the road
5. Think long-term. Most dieters have been yo-yo dieting for years – they gain and lose and gain some more. Choose a diet that you believe you can live with long-term, and not just until you lose weight.
