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Why is it so difficult to stick to a diet?

By Shereen Jegtvig, About.com

Updated June 24, 2009

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Question: Why is it so difficult to stick to a diet?
Answer: Dieting is tough. We may not stick to our diet, because we feel deprived of something we really enjoy. Emotions play a big part as well. Lots of us celebrate with food and commiserate with food...either way a diet can be destroyed. Another possible reason we fail at diets has to do with carbohydrate withdrawal. I have helped several people pursue low carb diets and those first few days are tough until the cravings pass.

If you break your diet, don't despair. It does not make you a failure, it makes you human. Forgive yourself and get back to your diet and exercise routine as soon as possible; if you wait too long it will be tough to get motivated again.

Some tips for sticking to your diet.

  • Take dietary supplements to make sure you are getting enough nutrition and essential fatty acids. The nutrients and fatty acids will help improve your mood to avoid eating due to sadness or depression.
  • Drink plenty of fresh water. Thirst is often masked as feeling hungry.
  • Don't rush your meals. Eating slowly allows your body enough time to realize you are full, so that you don't overeat.
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