7 Day Diet Plan For Weight Loss: A Simple and Effective Weakly Diet Plan for Fast Weight Loss

Why Nutrition is Important for a Healthy and Balanced Diet

A healthy, balanced diet looks different for each person, as nutrition needs vary based on gender, height, weight, activity level, and many more factors. When thinking about what is “healthy” and “balanced” for you, there are many considerations. Think about taste preferences, nutrition needs, cooking ability, medical conditions, budget, and more.

Planning a daily menu isn’t difficult as long as each meal and snack has some protein, fiber, complex carbohydrates, and a little bit of fat.1 You may want to plan approximately 100 to 250 calories for each snack and 300 to 600 calories per meal; however, you may need more or less depending on your hunger levels and energy needs.

What to Eat for a Healthy Balanced Diet

A healthy diet generally includes a combination of the following:

  • Vegetables: Always a smart choice, aim to fill about half your plate with veggies. Add plenty of cruciferous veggies like broccoli, leafy greens, as well as colorful options like peppers.
  • Fruits: Go for fresh fruit whenever possible and try a variety of colors. Berries, grapes, apples, and grapefruits make great choices.
  • Whole grains: Eating grains in their whole form provides additional fiber and nutrients. This includes brown rice, oats, and 100% whole grain breads.
  • Lean protein: High in protein and relatively low in fat, lean proteins include grilled chicken, ground turkey, and white fish.
  • Healthy fats: Fatty fish, such as salmon and tuna, as well as nuts, such as walnuts, provide essential omega-3 fatty acids. Avocados are a great source of beneficial unsaturated fats.

7-Day Sample Menu

This one-week meal plan was designed for a person who needs about 2,000 to 2,200 calories per day and has no dietary restrictions. Your daily calorie goal may vary. Learn what it is below, then make tweaks to the plan to fit your specific needs. Consider working with a registered dietitian or speaking with a health care provider to assess and plan for your dietary needs more accurately. There are also several helpful fitness books that cover all things health and nutrition to help you find the best meal plan to meet your goals.

Each day includes three meals and three snacks and has a healthy balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. You’ll also get plenty of fiber from whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes.

It’s OK to swap out similar menu items, but keep cooking methods in mind. Replacing a sirloin steak with grilled chicken is fine, for instance, but replacing it with chicken-fried steak isn’t going to work because of the breading changes the fat, carb and sodium counts—and the calories. Finally, you can adjust your calorie intake by eliminating snacks if you want to lose weight or eating larger snacks if you want to gain weight.

Day 1

Breakfast

  • One grapefruit
  • Two poached eggs (or fried in a non-stick pan)
  • One slice 100% whole wheat toast

Macronutrients: approximately 327 calories, 18 grams protein, 41 grams carbohydrates, and 11 grams fat

Snack

  • One banana
  • 1 cup plain yogurt with 1 tablespoon honey

Macronutrients: 324 calories, 14 grams protein, 62 grams carbohydrates, 4 grams fat

Lunch

  • 6 ounces grilled chicken breast
  • Large garden salad (3 cups mixed greens with 1 cup cherry tomatoes, 1/4 avocado, topped with 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette)

Macronutrients: 396 calories, 41 grams protein, 18 grams carbohydrates, 18 grams fat

Snack

  • 1 cup (about 10) baby carrots
  • 3 tablespoons hummus
  • 1/2 piece of pita bread

Macronutrients: 192 calories, 7 grams protein, 31 grams carbohydrates, 5 grams fat

Dinner

  • 1 cup steamed broccoli
  • 1 cup of brown rice
  • Halibut (4-ounce portion)

Macronutrients: 399 calories, 34 grams protein, 57 grams carbohydrates, 4 grams fat

Snack

  • Two pitted Medjool dates
  • 1 ounce 70% dark chocolate

Macronutrients: 302 calories, 3 grams protein, 49 grams carbohydrates, 12 grams fat

Daily Totals: 1,940 calories, 117 grams protein, 258 grams carbohydrates, 55 grams fat

Note that beverages are not included in this meal plan. Individual fluid needs vary based on age, sex, activity level, and medical history. For optimal hydration, experts generally recommend drinking approximately 9 cups of water per day for women and 13 cups of water per day for men.2 When adding beverages to your meal plan, consider their calorie count. Aim to reduce or eliminate consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, and opt for water when possible.

Day 2

Breakfast

  • One whole-wheat English muffin with 2 tablespoons peanut butter
  • One orange

Macronutrients: 391 calories with 14 grams protein, 52 grams carbohydrates, and 17 grams fat

Snack

  • One 7-ounce container 2% plain Greek yogurt with 1/2 cup blueberries

Macronutrients: 188 calories, 20 grams protein, 19grams carbohydrates, 4 grams fat

Lunch

  • Turkey sandwich (6 ounces of turkey breast meat, large tomato slice, green lettuce, 1/4 avocado, and 2 teaspoons honey mustard on two slices of whole wheat bread)

Macronutrients: 540 calories, 59 grams protein, 34 grams carbohydrates, 18 grams fat

Snack

  • 1 cup (about 30) grapes

Macronutrients: 100 calories, 1 grams protein, 27 grams carbohydrates, 0 grams fat

Dinner

  • 5-ounce sirloin steak
  • One roasted sweet potato
  • 1 cup cooked spinach (made with 2 teaspoons olive oil)
  • 1 cup green beans

Macronutrients: 612 calories, 48 grams protein, 40 grams carbohydrates, 30 grams fat

Snack

  • 1 cup plain popcorn
  • 1 ounce 70% dark chocolate

Macronutrients: Approximately 214 calories, 2.9 grams protein, 17 grams carbohydrates, 3 grams fat

Daily Totals: 2,045 calories, 145 grams protein, 188 grams carbohydrates, 85 grams fat

Day 3

Breakfast

  • Overnight Oats (one mashed banana, 2 tablespoons chia seeds, 1/2 cup oats, 1 cup almond milk, 1 teaspoon cinnamon)

Macronutrients: approximately 431 calories with 12 grams protein, 73 grams carbohydrates, 13 grams fat

Snack

  • One fresh pear
  • 1 ounce (22) almonds

Macronutrients: 271 calories, 7 grams protein, 33 grams carbohydrates, 15 grams fat

Lunch

  • One fried egg
  • One slice whole wheat bread
  • 1/2 avocado, mashed
  • 1 medium apple

Macronutrients: 408 calories, 13 grams protein, 48 grams carbohydrates, 21 grams fat

Snack

  • 3 tablespoons hummus
  • 1 cup baby carrots
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes

Macronutrients: 140 calories, 6 grams protein, 21 grams carbohydrates, 5 grams fat

Dinner

  • One whole wheat english muffin
  • One slice tomato, two leaves lettuce, one slice onion
  • 5-ounce turkey burger
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup

Macronutrients: 531 calories, 43 grams protein, 38 grams carbohydrates, 24 grams fat

Snack

  • 1 cup of ice cream
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries

Macronutrients: 337 calories, 6 grams protein, 46 grams carbohydrates, 15 grams fat

Daily Totals: 2,118 calories, 86 grams protein, 259 grams carbohydrates, 93 grams fat

Day 4

Breakfast

  • Two slices 100% whole wheat toast with 2 tablespoons peanut butter
  • One banana

Macronutrients: approximately 454 calories with 16 grams protein, 62 grams carbohydrates, and 18 grams fat

Snack

  • 1 cup grapes
  • 1 ounce (14) walnuts

Macronutrients: 290 calories, 5 grams protein, 31 grams carbohydrates, 19 grams fat

Lunch

  • Tuna wrap with one wheat flour tortilla, 1/2 can water-packed tuna (drained), 1 tablespoon mayonnaise, lettuce, and sliced tomato
  • 1/2 sliced avocado

Macronutrients: 496 calories, 27 grams protein, 28 grams carbohydrates, 132grams fat

Snack

  • 1 cup cottage cheese (1% fat)
  • 1/2 cup blueberries

Macronutrients: 205 calories, 29 grams protein, 17 grams carbohydrates, 3 grams fat

Dinner

  • 1 1/2 cups whole wheat pasta
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • Small garden salad (1 cup mixed greens with one half cup cherry tomatoes topped with one tablespoon balsamic vinaigrette)

Macronutrients: 472 calories, 18 grams protein, 91 grams carbohydrates, 8 grams fat

Snack

  • One apple


Macronutrients: 95 calories, 0.5 grams protein, 25 grams carbohydrates, 0.3 grams fat

Daily Totals: 2,012 calories, 96 grams protein, 255 grams carbohydrates, 80 grams fat

Day 5

Breakfast

  • One whole wheat bagel
  • 3 tablespoons cream cheese

Macronutrients: approximately 441 calories with 15 grams protein, 59 grams carbohydrates, and 16 grams fat

Snack

  • 1 cup baby carrots
  • 1 cup cauliflower pieces
  • 2 tablespoons ranch dressing

Macronutrients: 191 calories, 3 grams protein, 15 grams carbohydrates, 14 grams fat

Lunch

  • Veggie burger
  • Whole grain bun
  • One slice cheddar cheese
  • One sliced apple

Macronutrients: 573 calories, 25 grams protein, 62 grams carbohydrates, 26 grams fat

Snack

  • One banana
  • 2 tablespoons peanut butter

Macronutrients: 293 calories, 8 grams protein, 35 grams carbohydrates, 16 grams fat

Dinner

  • 4 ounces trout filet
  • 1 cup steamed green beans
  • 1 cup brown rice
  • One small garden salad with 1 tablespoon salad dressing

Macronutrients: 526 calories, 38 grams protein, 60 grams carbohydrates, 15 grams fat

Snack

  • One fresh peach

Macronutrients: 68 calories, 2 grams protein, 17 grams carbohydrates, 0.4 grams fat)

Daily Totals: 2,092 calories, 90 grams protein, 249 grams carbohydrates, 88 grams fat

Day 6

Breakfast

  • One (7-ounce) container of 2% Greek yogurt
  • One banana
  • One hard-boiled egg

Macronutrients: approximately 323calories with 27 grams protein, 35 grams carbohydrates, and 9 grams fat

Snack

  • 10 whole wheat pretzel twists
  • 3 tablespoons hummus

Macronutrients: 305 calories, 10 grams protein, 55 grams carbohydrates, 6 grams fat

Lunch

  • One whole wheat tortilla
  • 4 ounces turkey
  • One slice cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup mixed greens
  • 1 tablespoon honey mustard

Macronutrients: 531 calories, 43 grams protein, 25 grams carbohydrates, 28 grams fat

Snack

  • 1/2 ounce (11) almonds
  • One fresh peach

Macronutrients: 153 calories, 5 grams protein, 20 grams carbohydrates, 8 grams fat

Dinner

  • 5 ounces pork loin
  • Small garden salad with 1 tablespoon vinaigrette
  • 1 medium baked sweet potato
  • 5 asparagus spears

Macronutrients: 440 calories, 42 grams protein, 31 grams carbohydrates, 16 grams fat

Snack

  • One medium chocolate chip cookie
  • 1 cup sliced strawberries

Macronutrients: 201 calories, 3 grams protein, 32 grams carbohydrates, 8 grams fat

Daily Totals: 1,952 calories, 130 grams protein, 198 grams carbohydrates, 75 grams fat

Day 7

Breakfast

  • 1 cup cooked oatmeal
  • 1/2 cup blueberries
  • 1/2 cup non-fat milk
  • 2 tablespoons almond butter

Macronutrients: 439 calories, 17 grams protein, 50 grams carbohydrates, 21 grams fat

Snack

  • One (7-ounce) container 2% Greek yogurt
  • One sliced apple

Macronutrients: 241 calories, 20 grams protein, 33 grams carbohydrates, 4 grams fat

Lunch

  • 6-ounce baked chicken breast
  • Large garden salad with tomatoes and onions and 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
  • One baked sweet potato

Macronutrients: 708 calories, 45 grams protein, 42 grams carbohydrates, 40 grams fat

Snack

  • 1 cup raw broccoli florets
  • 1 cup baby carrots
  • 3 tablespoons hummus

Macronutrients: 168 calories, 8 grams protein, 26 grams carbohydrates, 6 grams fat

Dinner

  • 4-ounce serving of baked or grilled salmon
  • 1 cup brown rice
  • Five asparagus spears

Macronutrients: 468 calories, 31 grams protein, 49 grams carbohydrates, 16 grams fat

Snack

  • One peach

(Macronutrients: 68 calories, 2 grams protein, 17 grams carbohydrates, 0 grams fat)

Daily Totals: 2,093 calories, 124 grams protein, 218 grams carbohydrates, 86 grams fat

How to Meal Plan for a Healthy, Balanced Diet

  • Eating breakfast will help you start your day with plenty of energy. Choose protein and fiber for your breakfast.
  • A mid-morning snack is totally optional. If you eat a larger breakfast, you may not feel hungry until lunchtime. However, if you’re feeling a bit hungry and lunch is still two or three hours away, a light mid-morning snack provide satiety.
  • Lunch is often something you eat at work or school, so it’s a great time to pack a sandwich or leftovers that you can heat and eat.
  • A mid-afternoon snack is also optional. Prioritize protein, healthy fat, and fiber to keep you going until dinnertime.
  • Dinner can sometimes feel like a feat to cook and prep, but it can be very simple. Consider stocking up on meal prep containers so you can chop and store vegetables ahead of time, as well as easily reheat food. For an easy trick, mentally divide your plate into four quarters. One-quarter is for your meat or protein source, one-quarter is for a complex carbohydrate, and the last two quarters are for green and colorful vegetables or a green salad.
  • A complex carbohydrate-rich evening snack may help you sleep. Avoid snacking on high sugar items before bedtime.

Planning healthy meals isn’t difficult, but if you’re not used to it, the planning can take a little practice. The examples we provided should give you a great start. Don’t feel discouraged if you don’t stick to the plan exactly as outlined—it’s OK to make variations that fit your lifestyle and needs. Do your best to incorporate healthy choices into your day—vegetables, fruit, lean proteins, beans and legumes, and whole grains are always smart bets.

FAQs on the 7 Day Diet Plan for Weight Loss

What is the 7 Day Diet Plan for Weight Loss?

The 7 Day Diet Plan for Weight Loss is a structured meal plan designed to help individuals lose weight by creating a calorie deficit. It includes a variety of nutritious foods spread across five meals a day – morning detox, breakfast, mid-morning snack, lunch, evening snack, and dinner. Each meal is carefully portioned to ensure it provides essential nutrients while keeping the calorie count between 1,200 to 1,500 calories per day.

Can I customize the meals in the 7 Day Diet Plan?

Yes, you can customize the meals to some extent to suit your taste preferences and dietary restrictions. However, it’s important to maintain the overall calorie count and nutritional balance. For instance, you can swap similar calorie foods or choose different vegetables and proteins as long as you adhere to the recommended calorie range for each meal.

Will I lose 10kgs in a week with this diet plan?The 7 Day Diet Plan is designed to kickstart your weight loss journey, but losing 10kgs in a week is not realistic or healthy for most people. Weight loss depends on various factors, including your starting weight, metabolism, activity level, and adherence to the plan. A safe and sustainable weight loss is typically 0.5 to 1kg per week.

Is exercise required with the 7 Day Diet Plan?

Yes, incorporating physical activity is crucial for effective weight loss and overall health. While the diet plan helps create a calorie deficit, exercise boosts your metabolism, burns additional calories, and helps maintain muscle mass. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, such as brisk walking, yoga, or cardio exercises like cycling or swimming.

What should I drink during the 7 Day Diet Plan?

Staying hydrated is essential, so drink at least 2-3 liters of water daily. You can also enjoy herbal teas, such as green tea or chamomile, and detox drinks like warm lemon water or apple cider vinegar with ginger. Avoid sugary beverages, sodas, and excessive caffeine, as they can add unnecessary calories and hinder your weight loss efforts.

Can I follow the 7 Day Diet Plan if I have dietary restrictions?

Yes, you can modify the plan to accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarianism, veganism, gluten intolerance, or lactose intolerance. For example, vegetarians can replace meat with plant-based proteins like tofu or lentils, and those avoiding gluten can opt for gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice. Always ensure that your modifications maintain the nutritional balance and calorie count.

What should I do if I feel hungry between meals?

If you feel hungry between meals, opt for low-calorie, nutrient-dense snacks such as raw vegetables (carrots, cucumbers), a small handful of nuts, or a piece of fruit. Drinking water or herbal tea can also help curb hunger. It’s important to listen to your body and ensure you’re not mistaking thirst for hunger.

Can I repeat the 7 Day Diet Plan multiple times?

While the 7 Day Diet Plan can be repeated, it’s crucial to listen to your body and avoid extreme dieting. After completing the plan, transition to a balanced, sustainable diet that supports your weight loss goals. If you choose to repeat the plan, ensure you incorporate a variety of foods to prevent nutrient deficiencies and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Is the 7 Day Diet Plan suitable for everyone?

The 7 Day Diet Plan is generally safe for most healthy adults. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with specific medical conditions, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or individuals with a history of eating disorders. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet plan to ensure it’s appropriate for your individual health needs.

What if I don’t lose weight with the 7 Day Diet Plan?

If you don’t see weight loss results, evaluate your adherence to the plan and consider other factors like water retention, hormonal fluctuations, or muscle gain. Ensure you’re accurately tracking your calorie intake and staying physically active. If weight loss stalls, consult with a healthcare professional to identify any underlying issues and receive personalized advice to adjust your plan.

Can I drink alcohol during the 7 Day Diet Plan?

It’s best to avoid alcohol during the 7 Day Diet Plan as it adds empty calories, can increase appetite, and may hinder your weight loss efforts. Alcohol can also interfere with your metabolism and hydration levels. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and account for the calories in your daily intake, but keep in mind that it may slow down your progress.

How can I maintain my weight loss after completing the 7 Day Diet Plan?

To maintain your weight loss, transition to a balanced, sustainable diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods. Continue regular physical activity, practice portion control, and stay hydrated. Monitor your weight and make adjustments as needed to avoid regaining the lost weight. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits and maintaining a positive mindset are key to long-term success.

What should I do if I experience side effects like dizziness or fatigue?

If you experience side effects like dizziness or fatigue, it may indicate that your calorie intake is too low or you’re not getting enough nutrients. Ensure you’re following the plan correctly and staying hydrated. If symptoms persist, increase your calorie intake slightly with healthy foods and consult with a healthcare professional to assess your diet and health status.

Can I follow the 7 Day Diet Plan if I’m on medication?

If you’re on medication, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting the 7 Day Diet Plan. Some medications can interact with certain foods or require a specific dietary intake. Your healthcare provider can help you tailor the diet plan to your needs and ensure it’s safe and effective in conjunction with your medication regimen.

How important is meal timing in the 7 Day Diet Plan?

Meal timing can play a role in maintaining energy levels and preventing overeating. Aim to eat meals and snacks at regular intervals, roughly every 3-4 hours. This helps keep your metabolism active and prevents hunger-induced binge eating. However, flexibility is key, and it’s important to listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues to guide your eating schedule.

Also Read: 22 Weight Loss Secrets From Around the World That Are Totally Worth Stealing

Weight loss secrets from across the globe

Whole food diets. Brief fasting. Walking before and after a meal. Tea as the beverage of choice. Some of the best weight loss secrets aren’t secrets at all—they’re deeply rooted traditions practiced by people all over the world. People in the Mediterranean region didn’t sit down one day and say, ‘let’s create a hot diet book,’” says registered dietitian Bonnie Taub-Dix, author of Read It Before You Eat It—Taking You from Label to Table. “Their diet is actually a way of life.” But you don’t have to be a globe-trotter to benefit. In fact, you may not have to leave your house to try these healthy tips.

italian mediterranean food shot from above

Italy: A heart-healthy approach

People in Italy and all the countries around the Mediterranean traditionally eat meals rich in fruits, vegetables, fresh fish, and whole grains. That’s a snapshot of the famous Mediterranean Diet, which has been proven to improve heart health, support weight loss, and possibly even extend your life, says Taub-Dix. That way of life includes communal meals, big lunches, and small dinners, and a focus fresh, whole foods, plus a little wine if you choose. Sound doable? Try this simple way to eat like a traditional Italian.

spicy thai food from above

Thailand: Spice it up

Thai food is among the spiciest in the world. Hot peppers raise your metabolism, but the real benefit of food with a little zing is that it slows your eating, says James Hill, PhD, Professor and Chairman of the Department of Nutrition Sciences of the University of Alabama’s Nutrition Obesity Research Center. “Americans eat too fast,” he says. “By the time your body signals that it’s full, you’ve overeaten. Eating slower is a good weight-loss strategy, and making food spicier is an easy way to do it.” Need major weight-loss motivation? Here are 42 fast and easy tips to try.

uncooked rice and beans in wooden spoons

Brazil: Serve a side of rice and beans

All that shaking at Carnaval isn’t the only body-friendly habit in Rio; Brazilians enjoy this traditional dish with just about every meal. A study in the journal Nutrients found that beans might be “anti-obesogenic,” which basically means they may lower the risk of becoming overweight while also being top-notch, budget-friendly sources of fiber and protein. Eating beans is also associated with cholesterol reduction and lowering the risk of cancer.

cooked white rice in a bowl

Indonesia: Try fasting once in a while

Islam, this country’s leading religion, encourages periodic fasting: no food or drink from dawn to dusk. Others in Indonesia practice mutih, which allows only water and white rice. Although experts don’t recommend fasting for weight control, fasting in moderation can break patterns of mindless eating, says Dr. Hill. “Most Americans never get hungry,” he points out. “We’ve eaten the next meal before we’ve entirely digested the last one.” No need for strict abstinence to get these psychological benefits: Try just cutting your calories in half for a day. Registered dietitian Frances Largeman-Roth, nutrition and wellness expert and author of Eating in Color, agrees, but says: “I wouldn’t recommend fasting for people who have a history of eating disorders, as restricting food may trigger their disorder.”

variety of legumes from above

Middle East: Pulses make a main course

All over the Middle East you’ll find delicious dishes that feature pulses—chickpeas, red and green lentils, and dried peas and yellow split peas—at the center of the plate, including spreads, salads, stews, and wraps. “Pulses are a valuable protein source, and though they sound strange, you’re probably already including them on your menu,” says Taub-Dix. Studies found that pulses are packed with micronutrients such as iron and potassium, and act as powerful ally in the fight against obesity. (Try these 50 weight loss methods doctors wish you would follow.)

preparing salad at home

Poland: Eat at home more often than you eat out

Poles typically spend only 5 percent of their family budget on eating out. According to U.S. Department of Agriculture statistics, the average American family spends half its food dollars at restaurants and fast-food joints. To save money and pounds, start tracking how often you eat out and how much you spend each month, and gradually cut back. Your health will thank you! According to a study in the International Journal of Behavior, Nutrition, and Physical Activity, cooking at home five days a week was associated with more fruit and vegetable consumption, better blood glucose control, and more effective weight maintenance.

overhead shot of healthy breakfast plates

Germany: Eat your breakfast

An impressive 75 percent of Germans eat breakfast daily (compared with just 44 percent of Americans). They’re not grabbing Egg McMuffins either; they’re sitting down to fruit and whole-grain cereals and breads. Nutritionists have been advising people not to skip breakfast for years, but recent studies give a better picture of its importance. In one 2018 study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, eating breakfast was associated with better health, lower stress, and a higher quality of life. Here are some healthy breakfast ideas to get you started.

cropped shot of lower half of bike and man's legs

Netherlands: Swap the gas pedal for the bike pedal

Bikes (18 million) outnumber people (16.5 million) in the Netherlands. But unlike Americans (most of whose two-wheelers languish in basements and garages) 54 percent of Dutch bike owners use them for daily activities, such as shopping and traveling to work. The average Dutchman pedals 541 miles per year. Traffic lights in parts of Amsterdam are even synchronized to bike speed. Try using your bike to run errands close to home. If you’re of average size and pedaling at a moderate pace, you can burn around 550 calories per hour.

Swedish muesli breakfast bowl

Switzerland: Try a bowl of muesli

Muesli is a porridge or cereal made from oats, fruit, and nuts, each of which has been linked to better health and weight control. It was developed by a Swiss physician more than a hundred years ago to nourish hospital patients, but the Swiss eat it for breakfast or as a light evening dish. Muesli’s fiber makes it slow to digest, keeping you feeling full longer. Read the label carefully, though: Sugar content can vary from 2 to 14 grams per serving. Try these ways to add more fiber to your diet.

close up of tea kettle pouring tea into tea cup

Turkey: More tea, please

Any culture that sips tea all day and always offers a hot cup to guests has a lot to teach the rest of us about health. Tea is an amazing source of healthy antioxidants, and the caffeine in green and black tea can boost your mood and may even help you lose a few pounds. But Taub-Dix notes it’s also a great weight loss crutch: “When I want a break but it’s not time for a meal I will always get tea,” she says. “I feel like a steamy mug of tea is a great alternative to an unnecessary snack.” Read about 11 things that might happen if you switch from coffee to tea.

two men working in garden

Russia: Carve out a dacha plot

Country houses, or dachas, where 51 percent of city folk spend vacations and summer weekends, almost always feature a garden. Russians grow their own vegetables and fruits and preserve and can what they grow. That makes their diet more nutritious.

turmeric powder overhead

Malaysia: Turn up the turmeric

This spice, a key ingredient in curries, grows wild in Malaysian jungles. One of its chief components is a substance called curcumin, which may turn out to be a potent fat fighter. A recent review in the journal Foods found that curcumin is linked to a variety of health benefits, and may reduce cholesterol and the risk of metabolic syndrome. Try some in your next stir-fry, and check out these weight-loss tricks only nutritionists know.

cup of healthy herbal rooibos red tea in glass cup and jar of dry tea

South Africa: Sip some rooibos tea

Enjoyed throughout the country, rooibos tea is more robust than green tea, and because it’s naturally sweet, it needs no sugar. Ditching your daily Frappuccino for a cup of rooibos could save you thousands of calories per month. “Tea-drinking cultures generally have lower rates of obesity,” says Fred Pescatore, MD, a natural medicine physician and author of The Hamptons Diet. “That may be from special compounds, such as catechins, that certain teas contain, or it may simply be that we often think we’re hungry when we’re really dehydrated.”

variety of preserved pickled vegetables

Hungary: Crunch more pickles

Hungarians like things pickled: not just cucumbers but bell peppers, cabbage, and tomatoes. These tart treats can help maintain your weight, probably because of the vinegar that pickles them. Growing evidence suggests that acetic acid, the main component of vinegar, helps reduce inflammation, blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and the formation of fat.

family hiking outside mountains in the background

Norway: Take a Sunday family tour

It’s a deeply rooted Norwegian habit: On Sunday, everyone from toddlers to grandparents heads out to hike (in summer) or cross-country ski (in winter). Compare that with the typical American household, where the only Sunday expedition is from the fridge to the football game on TV. Start a Nordic tradition in your house.

indian woman doing yoga outside

India: Get yourself all twisted up

Most Americans respect yoga’s stress-busting and flexibility-enhancing power, but not many realize it facilitates weight loss. In fact, a recent study found that yoga devotees have a lower body mass index (BMI) than other exercisers do. There are probably multiple reasons. Yoga is best done on an empty stomach and can build muscle (depending on your preferred poses), which boosts your metabolism. And it encourages mindfulness, which includes paying attention to whether you feel full.

woman taking a nap on bed close up of hands

Japan: Perfect the power nap

In this on-the-go country, many people take time for a daily 20- to 30-minute nap, says James Maas, PhD, a sleep researcher and author of Power Sleep. There’s increasing evidence that chronic sleep deprivation raises the risk of weight gain. Dr. Maas blames two hormones: leptin, which helps the brain sense when you’re full, and ghrelin, which triggers hunger. The less sleep you get, the lower your leptin levels, and the higher your ghrelin. “Many people think they’re hungry when they’re actually sleepy,” Dr. Maas says. “Instead of a snack, they need some shut-eye.”

family dinner gathering outside

Mexico: Make the midday meal the biggest

Instead of ingesting the bulk of the day’s calories in the evening, as most Americans do, Mexicans traditionally eat their biggest meal between 2 and 4 p.m. If you eat less at night, you’ll wake up hungrier and eat a bigger breakfast, which facilitates weight control. As a general fat-fighting rule, try to get the bulk of your daily calories at breakfast and lunch.

family laughing and talking during dinner

France: Sit long, talk lots

The French excel at the leisurely family meal. On average, 92 percent of French families dine together nightly, compared with 28 percent of American families. “For the French, eating is the event of the day,” says Dr. Pescatore. “For us, it’s something we do before heading out to do something else.” Lengthy meals actually encourage less eating, Dr. Pescatore says. Conversation slows down the fork and gives you time to realize you’re full. Incorporate some of these mindful eating tips into your next meal.

man and woman nordic walking

Finland: Take up nordic walking

This is one of the Finns’ favorite outdoor activities. It’s not as exotic as it sounds: All that’s required is a pair of inexpensive, lightweight walking poles. Holding these in your hands aids balance, which is great if you’re older or if you’re on slippery terrain. Even better: Because they make you use muscles in your shoulders, arms, and torso, the poles transform walking into a total-body workout that burns 20 percent more calories, according to a study at the Cooper Institute in Dallas. Winter or summer, it’s a simple way to derive more fat-reducing benefit from your regular walk.

salmon cooking close up

Iceland: Eat something fishy

This island nation is surrounded by cold water, so no wonder fresh fish is a huge part of the national diet. Omega-3s in fatty fish like salmon and tuna lower your risk of heart disease and stroke, and build cell membranes throughout the body that perform anti-inflammatory functions. Eating more fish can also help with weight loss, says Largeman-Roth. “Because salmon is so high in protein and good fats, it’s very satisfying, so if you pair it with whole grains and leafy greens, it will keep you feeling full for hours, which means you won’t need to munch on extra snacks in between meals,” she says.

herring sandwich dish

Netherlands: Swallow more herring

The Dutch down about 85 million of these slippery fish per year (raw). That’s about five for every person in the country (and five more than eaten here). They’re pickled, then served unadorned as snacks or in soft buns with onions and gherkins for lunch. Oily fish like herring is slimming for a few reasons, says Dr. Pescatore. It contains lots of omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol, and cortisol is known to increase the amount of fat deposited around your middle. What’s more, lunching on herring or canned sardines guarantees you’ll ingest far fewer calories than you would if you eat a burger or even fish sticks. Just don’t forget the breath mints. Next, read about the weight-loss breakthroughs your doctor wishes you knew.