The key to losing weight is to keep trying until you succeed, says a leading dietitian.
"It can take more than one attempt," says Dr Clare Collins, a spokesperson for the Dietitians Association of Australia.
The association has conducted a survey that shows 55 per cent of people aged 25 to 49 have tried to shed kilos in the past 12 months.
But only two out of ten achieved their goal, according to the survey results released ahead of healthy weight week, which starts on February 17.
One of the messages of the week is for people to set long-term individualised goals rather than trying generic quick-fix diets.
"There's no one plan that will suit everyone," Dr Collins said.
But it's essential not to give up.
People who had been unsuccessful in the past could think about small realistic and sustainable changes.
"It could be as simple as eating a healthy breakfast every day."
It was also important to keep balance, she said.
"The best diet is different for everyone but should always include fruit, vegetables, breads and cereals, dairy and alternatives, and meat and alternatives."
