We all know eating less and exercising more is the key to loosing weight, however this is easier said than done. Equally dieting shouldn't just be anguish, torment and pain otherwise you will not succeed. Here are 10 top tips to change your attitude towards food and help you loose those pounds.

1. Realize the importance of information.

Be informed about the most up-to-date research. Go through articles in magazines to increase your knowledge about healthy eating. You will be more assured of achieving your weight loss goal if you are equipped with the latest information.

Be inspired.

It is very important that before you begin your weight loss programme to write down your reasons for loosing weight. Having clear goals at the start will make it easier to commit. Loosing weight to improve health problems is a good starting point, it shouldn't just be about looking good. Keep the list close to hand and refer to it regularly to keep you motivated.

You are what you eat.

Keep a record of your daily consumption of food and drink. If you understand your feeding habits, you can easily trace your areas of difficulty. It is easier to make changes when you watch what you feed yourself. This will make you more conscious of your diet and help you to plan ahead of time.

Ensure that your targets are realistic.

Research has shown that a good way to start is to attempt to lose 10% of your present weight. This can also be broken down to manageable sizes of about 2-3kg per time. It is a good thing if you can maintain your weight. You can get some health benefits if you lose weight gradually over a long period of time. At the beginning of your diet program, break it into steps that can be managed easily. You will have more confidence and assurance and will find it easier to succeed if your goals are reasonable.

Eat little and often.

Eating less calories than you burn will ensure you loose weight. However if you are constantly hungry this can be difficult. It has been shown that those who snack or graze on 4 or 5 meals per day can manage their weight more effectively. Try to divide up your food intake into smaller portions and eat them earlier in the day, avoid eating after your evening meal.

Have protein at each meal.

Diets that are high in protein will enable you to eat less. The reason is that protein is more filling than fat and carbohydrate. You will feel fuller with a smaller quantity of protein so including a portion of lean poultry or fish will enable you to achieve this goal. Protein has a longer digestion time which helps you to avoid the sugar rush that is associated with a diet that is high in carbohydrate.

Distractions can also make you eat more.

More often than not you will eat more when you a distracted, try and make sure you set aside a specific time to eat your meals. You will find that you take in less calories and be more conscious of what you are eating. It has been shown that you could take in 40% more calories if sat in front of the TV, or on the move, whilst eating.

You can take pleasure in your favorite dishes.

It is not always proper to completely do away with your best foods because it is counter-productive in the end. Make sure your best foods are listed on the menu but eat smaller quantities and combine them with other healthier alternatives. Moderation is important.

Do some moderate exercise.

Increasing your physical exercise will increase your metabolic rate. You will feel full of energy sleep much better and have a better outlook on life. Joining a keep fit programme will build muscle mass and sculpt your body. Exercising within a group of people has been shown to keep you motivated.

Finally, be assured of your ability.

Do not think the changes will take place automatically because habits are hard to break. You may even deviate from your diet intermittently. Do not let this discourage you. Be focused and remember the reasons for setting those goals. Think good thoughts and ultimately you will succeed.