To Diet or Not to Diet

You may be one of the many people who hears the word “diet” and cringes. The simple fact is everyone has a diet. It may not be a calorie restricting or high protein diet; it probably does not have a name at all, but the way you eat is your diet. Now, you need to lose a few pounds and are wondering whether to go on a special diet or not. That depends on you, how much you need to lose and how long you have been overweight.


When You Need Structure to Lose Weight

Some people find that they need to have a structured diet to follow such as Atkins, Nutrisystem, or Weight Watchers if they want to lose weight. They find that left on their own, they do not pay attention to what they are eating and do not lose weight. However, if they have a very structured diet to follow, then they will only eat what is on the plan and will lose weight. This type of diet can also work for a person who does not need to lose a lot of weight, but sticking to a very restrictive diet is not always easy. Do not let others tell you that you do not have any willpower; they do not know what they are talking about.

A very structured diet may be the best way for someone who needs to lose a lot of weight to start a new way of eating. It will give them a kick-start and make food choices easier. Often, once someone has broken bad eating habits, they are able to take control of their new diet. The cravings for certain trigger foods is gone and they can plan healthy meals that will continue their weight loss.

Taking Control of Your Weight Loss

Some people are able to keep track of what and how much they are eating without a diet telling them everything they can put in their mouth. They pay attention to portion sizes and watch for foods that have ingredients that will put on the pounds. This is the ultimate goal and how many people who do not have a weight problem eat. They eat the foods they want, within reason. They know that whatever they are not allowing themselves to eat today will still be there tomorrow. It is a good way to reach your weight goal and keep it off long-term.

Once you have cleared your system of the cravings for salts, sugars and fats, you will be able to take control of your diet, reach your ideal weight and actually stay there. It does take a lot of perseverance and hard work. There will be slip-ups along the way. The main thing is to keep going. Just because you ate a whole quart of ice cream yesterday does not mean you have to give up or that you are weak. Since a diet is just the way you eat, you are never really starting over. You are just making changes. Once you no longer have cravings, listen to your body, and you will know if you need a sandwich or a salad. And every once in a while, you just might need that slice of cake. Just remember to stop at only one.