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It seems nowadays everybody is going on a diet, or is just getting off of a diet. The past thirty years have led to a generation of overweight people. Fast food, snacks, and a hurried lifestyle have all contributed to this problem. For those who have been on diet after diet without success, it may be discouraging to think about going on another one. But a few diet tips should help these people to become more confident. More in-tune with their bodies. And more in-tune to what it needs.

1. Stay away from the fad diets. They often promise quick weight loss. And they have very strict requirements. If a diet requires eating one kind of food, or if it prohibits one kind of food, raise the red flag. A diet that limits you to one food is limiting you to a certain set of nutrients. No one food has all the nutrients that you need. Therefore, you eat just one food and become malnourished in regards to other nutrients. If you're told to stay away from a group of foods, try to find out why. Even a limited amount of 'unhealthy' foods, such as saturated fats, can be good for you.

2. One of the most important diet tips for the modern dieter is to remain optimistic. It is hard when you don't lose the weight you want. You may feel like you're falling behind. Or you may be hit with unbearable temptation and end up eating something you shouldn't. At this point, you may get depressed and give up. But remember that you're human. Keep moving toward your goal. The fact that you are trying means you're winning.

3. Start an exercise regiment to complement your diet. It is true that you won't lose weight simply by dieting. Food isn't the only reason you gain weight. Inactivity can play a part. And since inactivity can slow down your metabolism, food moves slower through your body. Stay active. Go outside when it's warm. Take a walk through the neighborhood. Take a dip in the local pool. Do some gardening. Whatever will get you moving. If you dread walking the treadmill, don't do it. You can get the same workout outside in the sunshine and fresh air. But don't simply think that eating differently will cause you to lose weight. The weight won't stay off.

4. Join a weight-loss community or go on your diet with a friend. There is no better motivation than competition. And if you're not a competitive person, you can still appreciate the support of a friend or group of likeminded people. You can compare diet tips with each other. You'll be surprised how easy it feels to lose weight and get in shape. As importantly, perhaps, as sharing in the victory of weight loss, is someone being there when you falter. And you will. No one has complete willpower all the time. That is what a lot of dieting is about. Willpower. When you stumble, your partner will be there to encourage you not to quit. And when your partner trips, you'll be there to catch him too.