Which diet works best? According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the answer is "The one you stick with!"

Experts followed dieters on various plans — low-carb, low-fat, and low-calorie — for a year, and found that each had a dropout rate of about 50 percent. But those who stayed the course of the diet all lost weight — ranging from 4 to 7 pounds on average. When the plans were evaluated to see which one provided the greatest health benefits, the balanced low-calorie plan won out! This plan — like mine! — contains plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains, and lean meats.

In short, the experts say that successful dieting isn't as much about eating a magic combination of foods, but more about staying the course. And remember that eating well is not just about weight loss, it's also about improving your health! So keep going! Your persistence will pay off in pounds lost and health benefits gained!

The indisputable key to long-term fat loss is exercise. It's a proven way to boost your metabolism and increase caloric burn.