Theyll guarantee instantaneous results or promise to make the pounds melt off without you having to change a thing.

Weight loss requires lifestyle changes(no matter how much we might wish for quick answers).

It requires work, adaptability, and a whole lot of patience.

woman stretching arms

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There’s so much that goes into it.

You should consult a doctor before making changes to your diet or exercise regimen.

That’s what you’re working toward.

That means ditching the judgy voice in your head and acting like your own best friend.

Craft a plan that will make the process of losing weight sustainable over the long haul.

Effective weight loss requires personal honesty.

Its also important be honest about your own food preferences.

Instead, craft a eating plan that emphasizes healthy foods you truly enjoy eating.

Mast recommends asking yourself the following questions: Why do you want to be healthier?

What would that look like for you?

Why is that important to you?

How would you feel if you reached those goals?

How would that impact the people you love and those who love you?

The key is to choose a dietary approach that fits easily into your lifestyle.

The best diet is one that works for the individual while providing appropriate nourishment, says Yeung.

Still, some people might benefit from more structure when it comes to meal planning.

They can also help to get someone used to a proper portion size of meals.

A healthy rate of weight loss is typically anywhere from 12 to 2 pounds per week, she says.

But try not to get too caught up in these weekly numbers.

Instead, focus on consistency when it comes to eating well and working out.

But sustainable weight loss relies on other factors as well.

Mast emphasizes that finding a supportive community or one-on-one health coach is invaluable.

Plateaus are very normal, says Melton.

Changing up your diet might help you move past a plateau.

But, says Yeung, It really varies person to person.

Dont assume a plateau means its time to eat fewer calories.

Instead, consider the bigger picture to identify any and all contributing factors.

Achieving the weight loss you were after can be simultaneously thrilling and a letdown.

To maintain your weight loss, youll need to keep feeding your resolve.

Its important not to just forego your new lifestyle because you reached a weight goal.

Focus on looking forward and give yourself pep talks to stay motivated.

Some quotes were edited for clarity.