English words to describe diet

"You are what you eat!" = a common expression meaning that your body shape is directly related to what or how much you eat.

So if you have a sweet tooth, and like eating cakes, sweets or chocolate, it's likely that you will eventually put on weight. As you get older, it becomes more difficult to lose / shed weight. In fact, you might see some middle-age spread, where you put on weight especially around your waist and hips.

What's the best way to lose weight? Do you wait until you can pinch an inch (i.e. measure at least an inch worth of fat around your middle) and then go on a crash diet? Maybe it's better not to wait until you notice you're piling on the pounds (gaining a lot of weight) but to watch what you eat all the time. Some people always count the calories, and avoid snacking between meals. Others cut out certain foods altogether (never eating bread or pasta, for example) to avoid going up a size.

Eating sensibly all the time is a good way to watch your figure. Cut down on (= reduce the amount of) fatty or sugary foods, take plenty of exercise, and make sure you're getting your five a day. (= Five portions of fruit or vegetables every day.)