Why does dieting have to be sooooo hard? I think part of the problem is that we’ve been trained to think of dieting as deprivation, and it’s really not true. Sticking to a smart diet is really just a matter of making smart decisions and following through. The way we think about things really does affect our actions, so looking at “dieting” in a new way can actually help you achieve your health and weight loss goals. So can some changes in your routine. If that sounds like it might be hard for you, keep reading for a few tips that can help make it easier.

1. Keep a food journal: We can slip up when we’re not totally honest about the calories we take in, which can happen if we don’t keep track of our eating. Keeping a food journal is a smart way to get around this. You can write it down the old fashioned way, or download an app.
2. Have healthy alternatives: Making changes is hard, but it becomes easier when you have a plan. If you’re not ready to commit to hitting the gym full force, take a walk around your neighborhood a few days a week. If potato chips have become a habit, swap them out for the healthy crunch of carrots dipped in hummus.
3. Distraction: Thinking about the ice cream you can’t have is only going to make you want it more. When you’re hit with a craving, do something else instead and it will usually go away.
4. Drink a lot of water: Many of us often confuse hunger with thirst. Drinking water will also make your stomach feel full and prevent overeating. And that extra water weight that’s making you bloated? Staying hydrated is the way to get rid of that.
5. Ditch diet soda: Though it sounds ironic, drinking diet soda can really sabotage your diet by creating sugar cravings. You might also feel like you’re entitled to splurge because you had a diet drink.
6. Don’t deprive yourself: Feeling deprived all the time will only make you want to give up. You can have your “forbidden” treats once in a while if you plan them smartly. When you do indulge, allow yourself to enjoy and appreciate every bite!
7. Don’t get too hungry: That will only make you overeat. Your body needs food every 3-4 hours to keep your blood sugar steady and prevent your appetite from going crazy. Small, healthy snacks of about 100 calories should do the trick between meals.
8. Eat enough protein: Protein will keep you satisfied for longer intervals.
9. Eat slowly: It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to get the message that you’re satisfied.
10. Shop smartly: Be prepared with healthy ingredients so that you’re never caught off-guard.