1. Be more active

Being proactive is the key to losing weight. In addition to providing many health benefits, exercise also burns off excess calories that cannot be lost through diet alone.

2. Use smaller plates Using smaller plates can help you eat less. By using smaller plates and bowls, you may gradually get used to eating smaller amounts of food without feeling hungry. It takes about 20 minutes for the stomach to tell the brain that it is full, so eat slowly and stop eating before you are full.

3. Don’t store junk food

To avoid temptation, do not store junk food such as chocolate, biscuits, potato chips and carbonated soda (soda) in your home. Instead, choose healthy snacks such as fruit, unsalted rice cakes, oatcakes, unsalted or sugar-free popcorn and juice.

4. Plan your meals

Try to plan breakfasts, lunches, dinners and snacks for the week to ensure you stick to your calorie intake. You may find a weekly shopping list helpful.

5. Don’t skip breakfast

Skipping breakfast won’t help you lose weight. You may miss out on essential nutrients, and you may snack more throughout the day due to hunger.

6. Eat more fruits and vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are low in calories and fat and high in fiber - 3 important ingredients for successful weight loss. They also contain high amounts of vitamins and minerals.

7. Drink more water

Drinking more water is a quick and easy way to gain weight.

In fact, some studies show that drinking a glass of water before each meal can reduce calorie intake and lead to weight loss.

8. Eat regular meals

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

9. Eat more high-fiber foods

Foods containing a lot of fiber can help you stay full and are ideal for weight loss. Fiber is found only in plant-based foods, such as fruits and vegetables, oats, whole-grain breads, brown rice and pasta, and beans, peas, and lentils.

10. Cut back on alcohol

A standard glass of wine contains as many calories as a piece of chocolate. Over time, excessive drinking can easily lead to weight gain.

11. Don’t ban any food

Don’t ban any food from your weight loss plan, especially the food you like. Banning food will only make you crave more. As long as you keep your daily calorie intake the same, there's no reason not to enjoy an occasional snack.

12. Read food labels

Knowing how to read food labels can help you make healthier choices. Use the calorie information to determine how specific foods in your weight loss plan fit into your daily calorie intake.