Diets are generally ineffective and rarely work well long term. In fact, past dieting is one of the strongest predictors for future weight gain. This is because overly restrictive diets actually lower your metabolic rate, or the amount of calories you burn, making it more difficult to lose weight. At the same time, they also cause alterations to your hunger and satiety hormones, which make you hungrier and may cause strong food cravings for foods high in fat, calories, and sugar. All of this is a recipe for rebound weight gain, or “yoyo” dieting. Instead of dieting, try adopting a healthier lifestyle. Focus on nourishing your body instead of depriving it.