How do I pick a diet?

[KatherineI]

I'm currently looking for a diet that would best fit me and my life style, but there are so many out there! Does anybody have a tip on how to pick one?

[Caity]

If possible it’s always best to talk to a doctor and get their advice first. If that’s not an option I would read up on some of the more popular diets, after eliminating any fad or extreme diets look at which diets seem to best suit your lifestyle. Once you have narrowed it down to just a few diets you are interested in I would consult anyone you know that is on that diet or look for information online from people on the diet about how it effects their energy levels, how easy/hard it is to follow and so on. Overall make sure you find something you’ll be able to commit to, generally something that consists of smaller changes will be more reasonable then a complete diet overhaul.

[Spang]

Through years of dieting I have have the the diabetic diet is a great place to start. If your Dr. will refer you to a dietitian of endocrinologist they could also help.

[TheSageMage]

I know and have used a diet that has been the best kept secret for centuries: Low Calorie 😛

Honestly though, most "diets" are going to cause weight loss because they are going to get you to think more about the food you are eating, rather than through some miricle of science. 

Use a calorie tracking application like MyFitnessPal and start tracking all the food you consume. You can link up Fitbit and MyFitnessPal so they talk with one another regarding food and exercise. This is a great way to recognise what you are eating and ensure that you are only eating the calories you need to help you lose weight.

[SunsetRunner]

I'm a firm believer that diets will get you nowhere fast. Most diets end at some point and then weight gain is bound to happen. Gaining more than what you lost in the first place is also very likely.
I suggest eating the same way you're used to as this is easier and much better in the long run. Any form of exercise is also a good option.

When it comes to the diet part though, there is nothing better than a lifestyle change. Simple changes goes a long way, like picking whole grain instead of white bread, pasta etc., drinking more water instead of soda, add a veggie and a fruit every day, cut down on fast food, limit candy to one day a week. Anything to "healthify" your current intake of food.
Cutting calories to suit your current goals is important and also doing it in away that makes your body thank you for it later.

[roobarb]

Eat real whole food that you prepare at home, watch your calories (don't eat too few or too many!), drink water, watch your salt, pilates, and cardio.  And give it time to work!

[botch]

listen to alastra just start making changes to your diet.  you will be amazed at the results, and it will be permanent.

[ShannonBoord]

I personally like the concept in the Personal Trainer diet.  Good quality protein & veggies, low glycemic carbs, no calorie counting.  Also, I like the portion control and convenience which encourages me to stick to a healthy eating plan.  You have to look at what fits your lifestyle and what you can reasonably stick to.   I agree with some of the other posts as well...this is a lifestyle change and not just a "diet".  GOOD LUCK!!!