1. Have whole foods make up most of your diet.
What you eat day to day makes a world of difference when it comes to shedding pounds and keeping the weight off for good. Sure, occasionally indulging in ice cream or a burger can still exist in a healthy diet—as long as you’re eating primarily whole foods daily. A 2020 study published in The American Journal of Lifestyle Medicines concluded that whole food plant-based diets are highly effective for long-term weight loss and reduce your risk of hypertension and type 2 diabetes.
“Aim to eat a balanced, nutritious diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains,” advises Best.
2. Don’t skip breakfast.
“Eating breakfast every day sets your day right and can curb cravings later in the day,” Melissa Mitri, RD, a registered dietitian with Melissa Mitri Nutrition, tells us. “It’s also an opportunity to fuel your workouts if you are a morning workout person, leading to a more effective workout and better performance.”
Science supports Mitri’s claim. A 2021 study published in Nutrients found that skipping meals was associated with being overweight and obesity, since it can slow your metabolism and result in overeating at your next meal.