Tips to help you lose weight

1. Do not skip breakfast 

Skipping breakfast will not help you lose weight. You could miss out on essential nutrients and you may end up snacking more throughout the day because you feel hungry. 

2. Eat regular meals 

Eating at regular times during the day helps burn calories at a faster rate. It also reduces the temptation to snack on foods high in fat and sugar. 

3. Eat plenty of fruit and veg 

Fruit and veg are low in calories and fat, and high in fiber – 3 essential ingredients for successful weight loss. They also contain plenty of vitamins and minerals.

 4. Get more active 

Being active is key to losing weight and keeping it off. As well as providing lots of health benefits, exercise can help burn off the excess calories you cannot lose through diet alone. Find an activity you enjoy and are able to fit into your routine. 

5. Drink plenty of water 

People sometimes confuse thirst with hunger. You can end up consuming extra calories when a glass of water is really what you need. 

6. Eat high-fiber foods 

Foods containing lots of fiber can help keep you feeling full, which is perfect for losing weight. Fiber is only found in food from plants, such as fruit and veg, oats, wholegrain bread, brown rice and pasta, and beans, peas, and lentils. 

7. Read food labels Knowing 

how to read food labels can help you choose healthier options. Use the calorie information to work out how a particular food fits into your daily calorie allowance on the weight loss plan. 

8. Use a smaller plate

 Using smaller plates can help you eat smaller portions. By using smaller plates and bowls, you may be able to gradually get used to eating smaller portions without going hungry. It takes about 20 minutes for the stomach to tell the brain it's full, so eat slowly and stop eating before you feel full. 

9. Do not ban foods 

Do not ban any foods from your weight loss plan, especially the ones you like. Banning foods will only make you crave them more. There's no reason you cannot enjoy the occasional treat as long as you stay within your daily calorie allowance. 

10. Do not stock junk food 

To avoid temptation, do not stock junk food – such as chocolate, biscuits, crisps, and sweet fizzy drinks – at home. Instead, opt for healthy snacks, such as fruit, unsalted rice cakes, oat cakes, unsalted or unsweetened popcorn, and fruit juice.