Rapid weight-loss diets may produce quick results, but most are hard to stick to over time, so the pounds often come back. Some can also be unhealthy – especially diets that limit important nutrients by restricting certain food groups. Experts say that safe, lasting weight loss involves realistic long-term goals, watching calories, and getting nutrients from all of the food groups.

A healthy diet requires making informed choices about food, and nutrition facts labels contain information needed to make those choices. The following information may help you better understand nutrition labels and make your food shopping smarter and easier.

If you are watching your diet, you probably know that how much you eat is as important as what you eat. The challenge is figuring out how much is “much”, because you may be eating more than you think you are. The good news is that understanding and managing food portions can help you solve this problem.

Losing weight is a challenge, but choosing a diet that fits your lifestyle and gets results can be difficult, too. Many popular diets may help with fast weight loss in the short term, but each has risks, and some are more effective than others in the long term.

For New Year’s resolutions related to losing weight, the first concern is usually how long you can keep that promise. It’s easier if you have some basic concepts in mind that help you develop better habits for grocery shopping, meal preparation, and of course eating. Try these tips for a healthier, diet-smart New Year.