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“Are you ready to start losing weight?
Not sure if you can meet your goals?
You can!
Start losing weight today with these proven diet plans.”
My Top 5 Diet Plans
Hi, my name is Lisa. I have tried almost all the major diet plans myself. I struggled with
my weight for many years before starting a specifc diet plan. I think diet plans work because they lay out
goals and specific steps to acheive them while keeping it fun. Most of the weight loss programs have helpful
communities to exchange experiences and success stories as well as healthy weight loss recipes. The plans also run
great specials. Please feel free to use the links below and save some money!
South Beach Diet, although often lumped in with the Atkins diet, is very different. It is a diet program that looks at the glycemic index and allows for good carbohydrates and good fats. The online program offers a free nutritional profile, newsletter, tools for tracking progress and a community of support.
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Nutrisystem is a great womans diet plan that is rich in low-glycemic index (good) carbohydrates, and healthy proteins, but low in overall fat content. The prepared meals supplied by Nutrisystem are designed to support the dieter’s nutritional needs. Nutrisystem is an easy to follow program that even offers different programs for Women, Men, Diabetics, and even a Vegetarian plan.
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Medifast is a diet program that focuses on eating six small meals to keep energy levels, and the metabolism, elevated. The plan calls for eating 5 Medifast meals (everything from shakes, bars, and drinks to soups, oatmeal, chili and pudding) and then one “Lean and Green” meal. The foods are scientifically formulated to support the unique needs of a dieter.
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Weight Watchers is a diet plan designed for healthy lifestyle changes leading to long-term weight loss. It has two plans, the Points plan and the No Counting plan. Both plans are easy to learn and lead to a long term healthy change. The Weight Watchers program is supported by local meetings, online recipes and menus, tools for weight tracking, and more.
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The Sonoma Diet Plan is dubbed "the most flavorful diet plan under the sun" - and emphasizes the joy of eating. The diet plan singles out 10 foods - the "Sonoma Diet Power Foods". These are some of my favorite foods which is a big reason I recommend it. There aren't many diets that teach you how to select the right wines like this one!
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Guidelines for healthy diet plans
- Find support from family, friends, a counselor, and/or support group. Share your weight loss meal plan experiences and listen to others; receive support and encouragement.
- Set realistic goals. Aim for a fast weight loss and expect setbacks. Forgive yourself and resolve to start fresh the next day!
- Make sure to shop when you are not hungry. Create a shopping list to stick to, and store tempting foods in cabinets or drawers out of your sight.
- Plan your diet meals and snacks ahead of time. You will be less likely to binge and more inclined to eat in moderation if you have thought out healthy meals in advance, and eat when are truly hungry.
- Dish up smaller servings. At restaurants, eat only half your meal and take the rest home. For more on healthy choices while dining out.
- Drink lots of water.
- Incorporate 30 minutes of physical activity into your day. Engaging in some kind of physical activity – whether it be gardening, dancing, walking, playing golf or tennis – will enliven your physical and mental health and help to keep the extra pounds off. See the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s.
General guidelines for a healthy diet
- Don't skip meals—especially breakfast. Plan your daily meals and snacks. For healthy eating, if your weight is normal, enjoy three meals and two additional snacks if you're hungry in between mealtimes.
- Learn simple ways to prepare food. Healthy eating doesn't have to mean complicated eating. Keep meal preparation easy; eat more raw foods such as salads and vegetable juices; and focus on the pleasure of eating healthy food rather than the calories.
- Avoid eating too much refined sugar. If you feel tired in the afternoon, reach for fruits, veggies or a high protein snack rather than sweets, which actually rob your body of energy.
- Listen to your body. Stop eating when you feel full. This will help you remain alert, relaxed and feeling your best.
Vitamins, minerals and supplements
Vitamins are organic compounds that your body needs for normal growth and health maintenance but can’t make and must get from food or supplements. The way these vitamins function once ingested varies - fat-soluble vitamins like A and D tend to accumulate in the body and become toxic in large amounts, while water-soluble vitamins like C are flushed through the body on a daily basis. Minerals are inorganic substances necessary for the body to function properly.
Healthy Weight Loss with Mindful Eating
- Eat high volume / low calorie dense foods.
- Avoid foods high in bad fats and sugar. These food release chemicals in your nervous system that make if easier to overeat
- Avoid all-you-can eat buffets. Too many choices at once leads to over consumption
- Eat from small plates, bowls and cups. Avoid the temptation to “clean your plate” if it has more food that you need.
- Don’t eat from large bags or boxes Buy single serving snacks or create your own small portions in plastic bags or containers
- Pay attention while eating. Eat only when hungry. Eat slowly, enjoying each bite. Be aware of your environment.
- Avoid distractions while eating. Don’t eat while working, watching TV, reading or using a computer.
| Essential Vitamins and Minerals |
Vitamin A (Beta Carotene) |
Helps regulate the immune system. Sources: carrots, peppers, green leafy vegetables such as spinach. |
Vitamin C |
Essential for the healing of wounds, and the repair and maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth. Sources: citrus fruits, tomatoes and spinach. |
Vitamin D |
Helps maintains bone health and the absorption of calcium. Sources: vitamin-fortified dairy products and cereals. |
Iron |
Helps red blood cells carry oxygen to all parts of the body. Sources: green vegetables, beans, poultry and red meat; best sources are supplements. |
Calcium |
Considered one of the most important minerals for the growth, maintenance, and reproduction of the human body. Sources: dairy products, kale, spinach, supplements. |
Potassium |
Helps with muscle and nervous system function and helps balance water in blood and tissues. Sources: bananas, other fruits and vegetables. |
Zinc |
Helps in the proper functioning of the immune system and plays a role in the metabolism of carbohydrates. Sources: red meat and supplements. |
Magnesium |
Helps with muscle and nervous system functioning and the production of energy and protein. Sources: fruits, vegetables and whole grains. |
A well-balanced diet will often provide the right amount and type of vitamins and minerals for the body—if you are taking the time to shop for and prepare a “well balanced diet.” containing fresh fruits and vegetables. Certain groups of people (young children, pregnant women, and older people) may benefit from additional vitamins and minerals in their diet.
Water intake for health
The human body is made up of between 55 and 75 percent water. Losing as little as 2% of your body weight in fluids can negatively affect athletic performance, energy, and critical thinking abilities. Drinking enough water helps prevent constipation, and aids in the absorption of many nutrients.
While sodas, fruit juices, or sports drinks can adequately hydrate you, remember that these beverages contain either calories or artificial sweeteners which can do more harm than good. Pure water is the best way to hydrate and keep your body in top working condition. If you find the taste boring, try adding fresh lemon or lime slices, and stick to cold water as it generally tastes better.
How much water should I drink a day?
The Mayo Clinic suggests drinking at least eight 8-oz. cups of water a day to stay properly hydrated. You may need to adjust your intake depending on:
- your activity level
- the climate you are in
- your health status
- if you're pregnant or breast-feeding
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