Think about your needs

There's no one diet or weight-loss plan for everyone. Think about your lifestyle and weight-loss goals. Pick a plan that you can tailor to your needs.

Before you start a weight-loss program, think about:

• Diets you've tried. What did you like or dislike about them? Were you able to follow the diets? What worked or didn't work? How did your body and mind feel while on the diets?
• What you prefer. Do you prefer to do a weight-loss program on your own? Or do you want support from a group? If you like group support, do you prefer online support or in-person meetings?
• Your budget. Some weight-loss programs ask you to buy supplements or meals, visit weight-loss clinics, or attend support meetings. Does the cost fit your budget?
• Other things that might affect your choices. Do you have a health condition such as diabetes, heart disease or allergies? Does your culture, religion or ethnicity play a role in your food choices?