10 Weight-Loss Tips That Actually Work (According to Science) 1. Lose Weight in Small Steps You may have persuaded yourself that you can completely alter your diet and begin exercising every day, but that's akin to boarding an aircraft to Antarctica without a strategy. "You need a strategy," says John Norcross, Ph.D., a psychologist who has researched New Year's resolutions at the University of Scranton. "Can you tell me what you're going to do differently?" Experts advise making a mental list of all the changes you want to make, then starting with one small, manageable adjustment, such as bringing a nutritious lunch or walking 20 minutes a day. Put a bold checkmark on your list once that's a comfortable part of your routine, then make another minor adjustment. Yes, incremental steps are necessary. 2. Keep Your Meals Simple The fewer complicated dietary and exercise limitations you have, the better. You must discover an eating plan or style that wo...