If you have just started a weight loss programme or if you’re not having a lot of success on the scales lately, maybe you need these 5 basic tips to get you on track. By being true to yourself and making intelligent choices you'll see those kilos gone, for example don't think for one minute that food is more important than your health, no piece of cake is as good as wearing that skimpy swimsuit so start NOW.

1. FORGET DIETING - Has dieting worked in the past? Is your weight forever yo-yoing? Forget it, dieting means a roller coaster ride of hunger, deprivation, boring food and depression. Instead make lifestyle changes that you can continue long term, not just for a few weeks but forever. Don't say "I'm on a diet", instead own these words "I am a healthy person" and allow the real you to shine.

2. EXERCISE - We all know how important exercise is, not only for losing weight but maintaining as well. Accept exercise into your life and your weekly routine at least 4 times a week for 30-40 minutes. This will give you a better quality of life now and later in life. Exercise also ups your metabolism, which is ideal for weight loss.

3. EAT/COOK LOW FAT - Hopefully you use my cookbooks. You know then that low-fat doesn't necessarily mean low taste. It's imperative that you have the food you love, just do it the low fat way. Forget frying and use cooking sprays. Cut as much fat off meat as possible and buy low fat cheese, margarine, milk and yoghurts, it really makes a difference. Read the labels on packages, be conscious of the fat count, sugar and calories, if the product says “DIET” then this means it is both low in fat, low in sugar, ideal for a slimmer.

4. TAKE RESPONSIBILITY - Stop blaming everybody and everything for your excess weight, ultimately you are the person who puts the food into your mouth, you decide to eat it so think like a healthy person, act like a healthy person and you will become one. Empowering yourself to make the right choices and the right decisions will benefit not only your health but also your waistline.

5. BE POSITIVE & BELIEVE IN YOURSELF - All those past failures don't mean a thing now, it is what is ahead that counts. It is up to you to create your destiny, love yourself and know that you deserve not only to be the best you can be but deserve the best life has to offer. Make it happen, it is ultimately up to you.