Diet plans are basically a dime a dozen. Too many people start out by mapping all the details such as the food they eat, when and where they'll eat and how it will work with their fitness regimen. The problems start to come when they're already 2 or more weeks into the program. Diet plans should be consistent and flexible, since every person is different and the way your body responds will also change depending on your lifestyle and genetics.
1. There's no universal diet plan. There are already so many diet plans available today on the internet, in books and at your local gym. The truth is, no single diet will work wonders for everyone. Every person is different so a particular diet that helps someone lose weight very quickly might not affect you the same way. Know more about the different body types: ectomorph, endomorph and mesomorph, to know how each diet will work for each type. Do not immediately try a regimen just because it's popular or you've heard a lot of good effects from other people. Read more about the principles and theories, see if it works for your schedule and abilities, then talk to those who have actually tried the approach.
2. Make it a lifestyle. Many people make the mistake of trying diet plans with the intent to lose fat and weight in 1 to 3 months. Fad diets have become very popular because of these quick and easy promises. However, there are health risks associated with yo-yo dieting and fad diets . Some people also tend to lose the weight quickly only to gain it back and more a few months later. Diet plans should be incorporated into your normal routine. You have to plan for the long term and make the change a lifestyle, instead of a shortcut.
3. Be realistic. How much do you weigh now? How old are you? Are you physically active in the past? Does your job allow you to work out and diet consistently on a daily basis? How long do you expect to get lean and fit? These are just some of the questions to ask yourself before trying diet plans. Always be realistic when setting goals or you'll only quit midway. If you're overweight or obese, it will take longer for the fat to come off. Also try diet plans that include foods that you can eat and tolerate for the long term. It is not smart to suddenly go vegetarian if you've always had meat in your diet . Changes should be gradual and set for years to come.
4. Keep a journal. A journal or log book will be an excellent way to keep track of your progress. You can write down the actual food items you consumed for the day and indicate the total number of calories, as well as the grams of protein, carbohydrates and fat. You can then set new objectives and see if you've successfully reduced the calories needed to lose weight. Also write down recommendations on things you wish to improve on in the weeks to come.
5. Reward yourself. Although you might embark on diet plans for the long term, it is equally important to reward yourself every now and then. Have cheat days or cheat meals wherein you can treat yourself to a favorite food item or two like pizza, ice cream or fried chicken. It's very healthy to do this once in a while to mentally focus and keep your body from adapting from the lower caloric intake.