How to Lose Weight on a Low Calorie Diet

Low calorie diets are the most effective way to lose weight. This is not a fad diet or a passing trend. Losing weight is simply creating a caloric deficit-or consuming fewer calories than are expended. The deficit can be made by eating less calories, exercising more or a combination of the two.

Instructions

• 1

  Choose healthy foods. Vegetables and whole grains satisfy nutrient requirements, while being lower calorie than white breads or sugar-based snacks.

• 2

  Keep track of food eaten. This prevents mindless eating, and aids in identifying main calorie intake.

• 3

  Calculate calories in each meal and snack. Knowing exactly how many calories are in everything you eat is the most important thing in following a low calorie diet.

• 4

  Drink plenty of water. It is estimated that over 80 percent of the population is dehydrated, and many times thirst is mistaken for hunger, causing unnecessary calorie consumption. When you don't drink water, choose a calorie free drink.

• 5

  Know your calorie limits. Several websites can calculate caloric needs based on weight and height, as well as a doctor or nutritionist.

• 6

  Follow cravings in reasonable amounts. Failing to satisfy cravings leads to overeating to accommodate the specific hunger. If a candy bar is what you crave, try eating a mini or snack-sized bar.

• 7

  Exercise. Any type of exercise increases the amount of calories that can be consumed. As a general rule, 10 minutes of strenuous cardio exercise burns about 100 calories.