9 psychological ways to help you lose weight

Dieting limits one's mind-set.

Once you're off your diet and have lost weight, you might revert back to eating poorly, not exercising and ultimately regain pounds. Instead, focus on your long-term eating habits.

Choose vegetables such as carrots and celery over sugary treats when you're having a snack craving.

Not only do they have fewer calories; they are also fibrous and can make you feel full faster.

Finding an exercise that's fun matters most, because you'll be more likely to incorporate it into your weekly routine.

Working out with friends or in a group can be motivational, making exercise less of a chore and more of an enjoyable pastime after work or between errands.

More cases of obesity are reportedly caused by lifestyle decisions rather than genetic factors.

Promoting the notion of genes as a cause for obesity may increase genetically deterministic beliefs and decrease motivation to engage in healthy lifestyle behaviors.

People who believe that obesity is caused by unhealthy habits are likely to become proactive and re-think their actions.

Consider tapping into your competitive side by turning weight loss into a challenge.

Can you lose this weight? Are you up to the challenge?

See yourself in a positive light. Envision your future self, six months to a year and consider how great you'll look and feel.

When we are sleep-deprived, high-fat and sugary foods seem much more attractive, probably because they give us a quick burst of energy.

To avoid temptation, adults should strive for at least seven hours of sleep every night.