Now the diet's out of the way…

Now that we're well into the New Year, there's a good chance that you are one of the thousands of people who started a diet and have already given it up. If so, don't feel downhearted. Diets are not the answer to weight loss and rarely work in the long term.

Any change in food intake will bring about a change in weight, but diets are generally unsustainable and many people find that when they stop they not only regain the weight they lost, but put on a few extra pounds as well. This is more likely to happen when there has been a radical reduction in food intake – your body recognises this and slows the rate at which you burn calories (your metabolic rate), leading to weight gain.

So what is the secret of sustainable weight loss? Quite simply, a tailored eating and lifestyle plan that doesn't involve food restriction, complex food combining or omitting entire food groups. Nutritional therapy is a safe and effective method for attaining your weight loss goals, addressing:

• Eating habits that promote weight gain

• Nutrient balance

• Portion size

• Cravings

• Emotional barriers and stress management

This intelligent approach to weight loss is the first step towards optimal health, helping you to look and feel your best and live life to the full.