Glucomannan is one of several weight loss pills that has been proven to work. This water-soluble, natural dietary fiber comes from the roots of the konjac plant, also known as the elephant yam.

Long-term weight loss takes time and effort. So be sure that you're ready to eat healthy foods and become more active. Ask yourself the following questions:

Fortunately, science shows that some ways of eating can do both — without the need for superhuman willpower, which is often a limited resource.

The table below lists some of the more common diets. There's overlap, but most plans can be grouped into a few major categories.

Each of the food groups in the pyramid emphasizes health-promoting choices. The pyramid encourages you to eat virtually unlimited amounts of vegetables and fruits because of their beneficial effects on both weight and health.

Before you start a weight-loss program, talk to your health care provider. Your health care provider can go over your medical issues and the drugs you take that might affect your weight.

Thoroughly chewing food can help a person savor what they are eating. Taking enough time to eat during meals also gives the body time to register when it is full.

Exercise has many other benefits. It can lift your mood, lower weight loss guide blood pressure and help you sleep better. Exercise helps you keep off the weight that you lose too. Studies show that people who maintain their weight loss over the long term get regular physical activity.

The purpose of the Mayo Clinic Diet is to help you lose excess weight and find a healthy way of eating that you can sustain for a lifetime.

Creating a relaxing sleep environment by keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet Avoiding screens, like watching TV or using electronic devices, before bedtime Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga

For lunch, you can dine on grilled chicken with a side of roasted potatoes or a leafy green salad. Then, finish your day with a lentil-vegetable chili, served with a crusty slice of whole grain bread.

Younkin has specific tips for those trying to eat in a way that aligns with their weight loss goals: "Aim to eat every 3 to 4 hours to keep blood sugar balanced, plan healthy snacks and don't feel guilty when you eat something you feel like you shouldn't."

The Most Important Thing for Weight Maintenance "After you've lost five to 10 percent of your body weight, experts suggest maintaining that weight for six months before trying to lose again (that is, if you still have weight to lose). This is how you can permanently move your set point—the weight range your body likes to stay in—down over time," says Younkin.

Avoiding caffeine and alcohol in the hours leading up to bedtime Exercising regularly, but avoiding vigorous activity close to bedtime