When we start our diet we have come to terms with knowing we have a weight problem. It would be great if I could say to you that if you diet for six weeks you’ll never be fat again - it doesn’t work like that. If you have a weight problem - you’ll always have a weight problem.

Therefore it is better to think in terms of this will be a way of life most of us will always need to keep a careful eye on what we eat. Everyone is capable of losing weight. Most of us have the problem of keeping up the enthusiasm to do it!

Hints and tips

Get into a routine - three meals a day - breakfast, lunch and evening meal.

Use all free foods on the diet - the cheese and fruit are sometimes forgotten.

Measuring and weighing the carbohydrates - guessing adds lbs!!

Being able to enjoy your 200 treats without feeling guilty because you’ve already eaten them.

Looking forward to a meal out, instead of dreading it. Saving beforehand and cutting down, or being extra good after you’ve indulged.

Always have something ready to nibble at.

Making a big effort to buy only low calorie or reduced fat or fat free e.g. Drinks, cheeses, sauces, dressings, etc. - they save you lbs.

Looking forward to being weighed instead of dreading it.

Forget the excuses - let’s have the truth!!