How to Make a Diet Plan

Americans spend $40 billion each year on weight loss and diet programs/products. ^{[1] X Research Resources} If you’re looking to change your eating habits or adopt a new diet, you may be wondering which option best suits your lifestyle. It is helpful to understand each diet or menu so that you can choose a method that can help you achieve your goals.

Table of Contents

Plan for success

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/b/ba/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-1-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a- Diet-Plan-Step-1-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/ba/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-1- Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-1-Version-2.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight” :546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Define long-term goals. People choose different diets or diets for a variety of reasons. Your ultimate and long-term goals will help you choose which diet plan is best. Some goals could be:

Losing weight
Control high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol
Make your body stronger
Be more environmentally conscious
Improve general health or desire to be healthy

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/4/4c/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-2-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a- Diet-Plan-Step-2-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/4c/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-2- Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-2-Version-2.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight” :546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Take notes on your previous diet. If you’ve tried certain diets or eating patterns, try to remember how it worked for you, what you liked or didn’t like about the diet, and how you feel about it. Do you think it suits your lifestyle?

For example, you’ve tried a vegetarian diet but found yourself craving meat, or you’ve tried a low-carb diet, but it left you feeling lethargic and tired all day. If any of the previous diets have not worked, you need to have another option.
Adopting a diet plan is more than just willpower. It should be a plan that you can stick to for the long term.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/a/a5/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-3-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a- Diet-Plan-Step-3-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/a5/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-3- Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-3-Version-2.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight” :546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Financial planning for the diet. Every diet or meal plan can have costs. You may have to buy ready-to-eat foods, protein shakes, or vitamin and mineral supplements. But there are plenty of diets out there that don’t cost much, or don’t cost anything extra.

Choose a diet plan that is easily affordable so you don’t have to stop your new diet due to high costs.
Take advantage of “sign up for promotions” or promotional offers when possible. You can save some money by joining some of the more popular diet programs.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/f/f0/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-4-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a- Diet-Plan-Step-4-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f0/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-4- Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-4-Version-2.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight” :546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Plan your lifestyle. Some diets require you to prepare your own meals and snacks, some are done entirely online, others may require individual or group meetings. Are those activities relevant to your life? Consider how your lifestyle might change or need to be changed to help your diet plan succeed. If you have to make too many changes in your lifestyle, it may be difficult for your diet plan to stick to it in the long run.

Some diet programs require you to take time to prepare food, while others prepare meals for you. If you don’t like to cook, consider choosing a diet plan that includes alternatives like protein shakes, protein bars, or pre-cooked meals.
You also need to remember to consider your social life. If you like to eat out or enjoy promotions, you’ll need a flexible diet plan to be able to participate in those activities.
You should also consider factors such as allergies or sensitivities to foods or religious taboos. Many diet plans are very comprehensive and may not take these issues into account.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/2/22/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-5-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a- Diet-Plan-Step-5-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/22/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-5- Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-5-Version-2.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight” :546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Combined with regular exercise. Physical activity is an important part of any healthy lifestyle. Plan a workout that includes both cardio and strength training weekly. These types of exercise can help boost weight loss and maintain your long-term weight goals.

In addition, exercise can help lift your mood, improve sleep habits, control blood pressure or diabetes, and be good for heart health. ^{[2] X Trusted Source Mayo Clinic Go to Source}
If you’re new to bodybuilding, try talking to a personal trainer at the gym or a fitness professional. They can advise you on an appropriate exercise program.
Find group classes for beginners at the gym. This is a great way to get started and get support from people just starting out like you.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/4/4b/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-6-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a- Diet-Plan-Step-6-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/4b/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-6- Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-6-Version-2.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight” :546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Talk to your doctor. Talk to your doctor about your current health, any medical conditions, and any medications you’re taking, if any. Your doctor can advise you on what diet or eating pattern is best for you and your health. They can also advise which diets you should avoid.

Many doctors also create at-home diets and nutrition programs for their patients, which generally include following the doctor’s instructions and regularly monitoring their weight.
Your doctor can refer you to a licensed dietitian to guide and help you design your own diet.
In addition, your doctor can guide you through the weight loss process with medication. During this process, your doctor may prescribe appetite suppressants, making it easier for you to stick to your diet plan. Not all weight loss pills are safe for everyone. Consult your doctor for more information.

Choose a diet plan

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/b/bd/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-7-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a- Diet-Plan-Step-7-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/bd/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-7- Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-7-Version-2.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight” :546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Learn many different diet plans. You can spend time going online, going to a bookstore, or chatting with friends or family about different diets. It’s important to learn as much as possible when you’re choosing a new diet. That way you’ll be sure to choose a balanced, safe, and enjoyable diet.

Compare several diets that might work for you. Weigh all the costs, flexibility, and sustainability of each diet.
Check out other people’s reviews about the diets. People who have tried the diet can offer honest and factual reviews to help you make a decision.
Also, make use of reliable sources when researching. Find information from weight loss hospitals/clinics, doctors, dietitians or licensed health professionals.
Remember to avoid any “extreme” diets that can be dangerous and unhealthy.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/9/99/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-8-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a- Diet-Plan-Step-8-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/9/99/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-8- Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-8-Version-2.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight” :546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Try “balanced” diet plans. These diets emphasize all food groups and are not limited to any particular food. Although calorie-controlled, these diets include all food groups: protein, dairy, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. As a result, besides being safe for most people, such diets also become simple and easy to apply.

Weight watchers are a popular diet that encourages participants to enjoy all foods. This diet guide teaches you how to monitor portion sizes, choose healthy foods, and responsibly. ^{[3] X Research Resources} This diet plan is available online and in real-life support groups.
The Mediterranean diet is often associated with a “heart-healthy” menu. This diet includes all food groups, but emphasizes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Additionally, it encourages consumption of omega-3 fats found in olive oil, avocados and cold water fish like salmon or mackerel. ^{[4] X Trusted Source Mayo Clinic Go to the source} You can even drink a glass of red wine.
DASH is a balanced diet, developed to help people control high blood pressure in addition to medication. In addition to its low sodium content, the DASH diet encourages you to consume lean protein, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. In addition, processed foods and refined sugars are strongly recommended to be avoided. ^{[5] X Research Sources}

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/f/f1/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-9.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan- Step-9.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f1/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-9.jpg/v4-728px-Establish- a-Diet-Plan-Step-9.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser -output”></div>”}

Try high-protein and low-carb diets. Some diets focus on high protein, medium fat, and low carbs. This diet limits foods such as grains, starchy vegetables, and high-starch fruits. Low carb levels can make you feel lethargic or tired during the first week or two of application. ^{[6] X Trusted Source Mayo Clinic Go to Source} This phenomenon is often referred to as the “starchy cold”. High-protein and low-carbohydrate diets are often recommended for women with polycystic ovary syndrome or patients with insulin resistance.

The Atkins diet is very popular, which emphasizes lean protein, dairy, certain non-starchy fruits and vegetables, and limits the amount of starches from foods, including starchy vegetables and whole grains. glass. Sugar and other processed foods are also limited.
The Zone Diet is also a low-carb diet that focuses on lean protein, lower fat, and lots of non-starchy vegetables and fruits. On this diet, most of your meals consist of fruits and vegetables. ^{[7] X Research Sources}
The South Beach Diet is based on 3 phases. Phase 1 is designed to eliminate appetite and lose weight fast with a strict menu. Phase 2 gradually introduces more foods back – like whole grains, fruits and some vegetables. Phase 3 works to help you maintain the desired weight once achieved. ^{[8] X Research Sources}

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/5/58/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-10.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan- Step-10.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/58/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-10.jpg/v4-728px-Establish- a-Diet-Plan-Step-10.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser -output”></div>”}

Try a vegetarian diet. This regimen is based solely on plant proteins such as beans, nuts or lentils, fruits and vegetables. A vegan diet avoids all foods of animal origin such as meat, poultry, eggs, dairy and honey.

Veganism abstinence from all animal products including milk, eggs and honey. This is the most rigorous diet of the bunch, requiring careful planning and research to ensure all the nutrients are met. This is not an easy diet to follow.
There are many types of vegetarianism. The Lacto-ovo vegetarian diet includes eggs and dairy. This is probably an easier way to start if you’ve never tried a meat-free diet.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/8/83/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-11.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan- Step-11.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/83/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-11.jpg/v4-728px-Establish- a-Diet-Plan-Step-11.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser -output”></div>”}

Try meal replacement foods. Many diets use protein shakes, protein bars, or processed foods to help with weight loss. This type of diet can provide great results in weight loss compared to other diets. ^{[9] X Research Source}

Jenny Craig, SlimFast, NutriSystem and Medifast are diets that use protein shakes, protein bars, or processed/packaged foods to help with weight loss.
Alternative diets can be more expensive than a balanced or low-carb diet because you have to pay for the substitutes.
Meal replacement foods are also not applicable for the long term. They often contain too few calories, vitamins and minerals compared to whole and natural foods.

Apply the diet

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/a/a4/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-12.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan- Step-12.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/a4/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-12.jpg/v4-728px-Establish- a-Diet-Plan-Step-12.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser -output”></div>”}

Write down an action plan. Each diet plan requires you to change some habits, stop others, and possibly start new ones. Make a list of everything you would change and start gradually incorporating it into your daily life.

Set deadlines for yourself. The deadline will keep you motivated to start and stick to a new diet plan.
Making small changes over a long period of time makes it easier to do and you’re more likely to stick to the program.
Journaling is also helpful. You can track your progress, challenges, and success as you transition to a new diet plan.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/f/f4/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-13.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan- Step-13.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f4/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-13.jpg/v4-728px-Establish- a-Diet-Plan-Step-13.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser -output”></div>”}

Create a healthy environment. Whatever diet you choose, make sure your home and work environments support your new diet plan.

Cleaning out the fridge, freezer, and pantry is a good start. Be sure to eliminate unhealthy foods or treats so you don’t get tempted.
Engage in activities or hobbies that interest you beyond food. Having a project to distract when cravings kick in and keep you on track also helps.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/f/f0/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-14.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan- Step-14.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f0/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-14.jpg/v4-728px-Establish- a-Diet-Plan-Step-14.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser -output”></div>”}

Buy the necessary food and products. If your diet focuses on foods (like lean protein or 100% whole grains) or products (like protein shakes or protein bars), take a trip to the grocery store to buy one. hoard those items. The healthy foods stocked in your kitchen will keep you from being tempted to stray from your new diet plan.

Buy healthy foods instead of favorites. If you love a sweet treat for dessert after dinner, you should stock up on fruit, black chocpate (80% cocoa or more and no artificial ingredients), or low-fat yogurt to have on hand when cravings kick in. go up.
Multi-compartment plastic containers also help. Thanks to that, it is easier and more convenient to bring lunch with you.
Some diet plans also suggest using scales or cups to measure servings. Food scales are inexpensive and an easy-to-use tool for accurately measuring portion sizes.

Stay safe and healthy

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/5/53/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-15.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan- Step-15.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/53/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-15.jpg/v4-728px-Establish- a-Diet-Plan-Step-15.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser -output”></div>”}

Avoid fad diets. Going on a diet that claims to “lose 5 kg in 10 days” or “lose 2 pants in 1 week” is often unsafe and ineffective. They sound tempting, but they can have side effects, have little or no effect on weight loss, and are often unsuitable for long-term use.

Many over-the-counter weight loss pills fall into the “fake diet” category. They are not regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and can harm you. Furthermore, they can also cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, heart palpitations, loose stools, headaches, and insomnia. ^{[10] X Trusted Source Mayo Clinic Go to Source}
In general, a safe level of weight loss is in the range of ¼ kg to 1 kg per week. You need to be patient when starting a new diet plan.
Always make sure your diet is approved by a health professional, government website or hospital or weight loss clinic. This endorsement shows that the diet is safe and highly reliable.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/9/9b/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-16.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan- Step-16.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/9/9b/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-16.jpg/v4-728px-Establish- a-Diet-Plan-Step-16.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser -output”></div>”}

Avoid overly restrictive diets. Diets that avoid whole food groups or certain groups are generally unhealthy. Such diets limit essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals.

Very low-calorie diets should also be avoided. In general, you need to consume at least 1,200 calories per day to meet your nutritional goals. ^{[11] X Research Source}
Watch out for diets that recommend consuming large amounts of certain foods like grapefruit or green tea.
Remember that a healthy diet should include a variety of foods from all food groups.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/3/32/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-17.jpg/v4-728px-Establish-a-Diet-Plan- Step-17.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/32/Establish-a-Diet-Plan-Step-17.jpg/v4-728px-Establish- a-Diet-Plan-Step-17.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser -output”></div>”}

Avoid taking too many supplements. Some diets recommend taking a variety of vitamins, minerals, or herbal supplements. The FDA does not monitor the safety of dietary supplements, and we need to be careful when using them.

Research every supplement before you buy. You can check the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicines website for more information and effectiveness of dietary supplements.
Consult your doctor before starting any supplement. Some supplements interact with many common medications, so it’s important to check to make sure they’re safe for you.

Advice

Always consult your doctor or dietitian before making any major lifestyle or dietary changes.
Set realistic and specific goals that you can achieve.
Remember that safe weight loss ranges from ¼ kg to 1 kg per week. Be patient with your journey.
Joining a support group or finding friends, family, or coworkers can encourage you through the transition to a new diet plan.
If you’re planning on following a vegetarian and low-carb diet, you need to make sure you get enough protein, vitamins, and minerals from the other food groups. Source: Low Carb Vegetarian

Steps

Plan for success

Choose a diet plan

Apply the diet

Stay safe and healthy

Advice

Related Posts