Everyone knows a healthy diet is important if you want to lose weight or stay fit. Maintaining a healthy diet can also help reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes and other serious health issues. However, try as you might sticking to a healthy diet can be extremely difficult, especially when you are just starting out. A lot of us put too much pressure on ourselves to get right and of course overthinking about what you can and cannot eat doesn't help. Am I right? The first thing you need to do is be realistic about your goals. Make sure that your weight loss goals are achievable. That means making sure you are consuming enough of the right foods. If you are having a hard time sticking to your diet, here are a few ways to get back on track.

We all know how difficult it is to stop yourself from eating something if it's kept in front of you at all times. So, if you have any junk food in the house, get rid of it ASAP. Out of sight out of mind, really does work. Say you live with your family members and they tend to have junk food lying around, ask them to at least keep it hidden from you. That way you can stay on track and get healthy a lot faster.

As much as you might be trying to eat healthily, chances are that you're bound to get dragged outside for a meal. But just because you got roped into a brunch or dinner sesh with your friends doesn't mean you can't plan ahead. Figure out which place you will be heading to and check out their menu beforehand. This way once you get there, you can just order the healthiest thing available.

One of the most motivating factors in helping you lose weight is to see how much you progressed already. This is often why trainers ask people to wear short clothes or body fitting clothes to the gym so that they can see how much their bodies have changed. Similarly, if you track and monitor your progress, you're bound to feel motivated to shed more kilos.

If you are on the go constantly, your going to feel hungry at some point. This could cause you to make unhealthy food choices at the moment, which you may later regret. The best way to rectify this issue is by carrying your own snack. Try a high-protein snack or a bag of nuts like almonds and peanuts. Pack foods that will help you feel full and fuel you. This way you can also be mindful about what you put into your body.

The best way to stick to your diet is by staying focused on why you decided to make healthy choices in the first place. Is it your health? Or do you want to fit into that size 8 dress? Make a list if you haven't figured out what you are trying to achieve. Once you know why you'll find it much easier to say no to yourself when you want to indulge in unhealthy foods.

Following a healthy diet doesn't mean you can't have a cheat day or indulge in your favourite food. This is where most people fall off the wagon. Trying to stick to a healthy diet and thinking you can't have a few sweet treats here and there may make you want it more. The key is to start slow. Set a day for when you can grab that doughnut or dive into a delicious pizza. Everything in moderation. Over time you won't even feel the need for these cravings.

Research has found when you change your diet and exercise routine at the same time it can work in your favour and help you achieve your weight loss goal. A study conducted on 200 people found those who did this were able to stick to their new routine better than those who only changed one habit. Plan out your meal and fitness routine. Make sure you eat the right foods to help you do the workout you've chosen.