Continued from Spotting the Good Diets.

Look for flexibility. The most-effective programs include an eating plan that allows you to eat from all food groups in a combination of meals and snacks, which helps you ward off hunger between meals.

Also you should be able to customize a diet to your own food likes and dislikes. Mix it up so that you don’t get bored.

When you eat foods that are colorful and offer different flavors and textures, losing weight is more fun and nutritious as well.

Incorporate exercise. The calories you spend on activity are as important as the calories you get from food. Look for a program that encourages activities.

Work with a team. Weight loss might be easier when you have the support of qualified professionals, including a doctor to manage medical problems and in-person or online support groups and counselors.

Do a reality check. The best programs suggest a modest weight loss of ½ to 2 pounds per week after the first few weeks. They also offer a plan for keeping off the weight after you lose it.