The golden rules to drop pounds

Diet fads come and go, but sensible slim-down ideas stand the test of time. Before you make your summer weight-loss plan, take a look at these rules, follow them will help you drop pounds healthy and more effectively.

Don't skip meals. When you get too hungry, you're less likely to make healthy choices.

Never go on a diet when you're under a lot of stress.

Ideally, you should try to lose no more than 1 to 2½ pounds a week.

A short bout of exercise each day is more effective than longer, less frequent periods.

To lose weight for good, know that you can't go back to your old eating habits. You'll need to change your lifestyle.

Eating too little can backfire. Never have less than 1,200 calories a day—or you may slow down your metabolism.

Don't grocery-shop when you're hungry. You're likely to make high-fat, low-nutrient impulse purchases.

For a fit and toned figure, dieting alone isn't enough. You also need to exercise.

A slipup doesn't have to lead to an entire day of overeating. Resolve to make better choices at your next meal.

Cut down, not out. Trim portions of food instead of removing entire categories (carbs, fats, etc.).

Below are six most important ways to use the mind-body connection to help your weight-loss efforts rather than hinder them.

Accept that diets don’t help you in the long run.
Focus on fitness, not thinness.

Make friends with food.

Start small and build slowly.

Concentrate on commitment more than intensity.

Stop obsessing about your weight.