* Create a weekly meal plan of healthful breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals. Choose recipes and go grocery shopping at the beginning of the week, then stick to your menu all week long. Some great dinner ideas include a kale and chicken salad with fresh avocado slices or grilled chicken breasts with spiralized zucchini noodles and marinara sauce. * Select meals and snacks that include healthful ingredients: lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, including rolled oats and quinoa, and lean proteins, such as skinless chicken, ground turkey, tofu, or lentils. * Control your portions by using smaller plates and bowls, adding veggies to your dish first, and eating mindfully. * Choose healthful snacks such as ½ cup of raw almonds, carrots and hummus, or a granola or protein bar (look for one with lower sugar content). * Avoid social overeating. If you’re planning to have a meal with friends, make sure you have a game plan beforehand of what healthy foods you can order from the restaurant. If you’re eating at a friend’s house, bring your own healthy snack if you’re not sure they will have good options for you. * Avoid foods high in added sugars (candy, baked goods), fat (french fries), and sodium (ramen noodles, chips). Eliminate foods with trans fats, such as donuts and frozen pizzas. * Always choose water over sugary drinks.