Do you want to lose weight and keep it off? Then it's about time you changed your bad food habits once and for all. First of all you must find out about your relationship with food and once you do that you can start to lose weight.

Food can be like a relationship with a partner, you have your ups and downs, but like any good relationship it should make you feel good about yourself. If food makes you feel bad about yourself or depressed, it's time to do something about it. Let's look at some reasons why your relationship with food is not what it should be.

1. You are an emotional eater. You eat when you're bored, stressed or upset. In other words your eating is fuelled by emotions, which means you eat when you are not hungry and 90% of the time the food you eat is treat- based so will be things like chocolate, crisps or sweets that will lift your mood temporarily. Try changing your thought patterns, so next time you are feeling down or bored, instead of reaching out for that sweet treat try going for a walk or having a relaxing bubble bath.

2. You are a crash dieter. You try every fad diet around, you manage to lose weight but then put all back on with usually some more on top. Crash dieting causes havoc with your hormones – your body thinks it's going to starve and clings on to any fat that you might have as reserve. Eat small portions regularly and trick your brain into thinking it's not in starvation mode. Eat slowly to aid digestion, as cravings after dinner could be related to poor digestion. Make sure to eat a varied, balanced diet with the odd treat rather than crash dieting, which often results in weight gain and a poor relationship with food.

3. You have a habit of eating too much, too quickly. If you eat too much, the chances are you eat too quickly. This makes it harder for the brain to signal the stomach that you are full. Often when you think you are hungry you are actually thirsty, so drink a glass of water. Change the size of plate to a smaller one and think before having seconds. Don't eat in front of the TV or while doing something else to stop absent minded eating, and make sure to chew your food properly.

4. You skip breakfast. Eating breakfast is a must as it sets you up for the day and stops the rollercoaster that can lead to fatigue and poor food choices. Moreover, it will reduce the pace of your metabolism which burns up the energy you use. Try getting up 20 minutes or so earlier to allow yourself time for breakfast. If you can't face eating early in the morning, try having a smoothie or a piece of fruit to kick-start your metabolism.. Eating breakfast is a must as it sets you up for the day and stops the rollercoaster that can lead to fatigue and poor food choices. Moreover, it will reduce the pace of your metabolism which burns up the energy you use. Try getting up 20 minutes or so earlier to allow yourself time for breakfast. If you can't face eating early in the morning, try having a smoothie or a piece of fruit to kick-start your metabolism.

5. You are influenced by others around you. You find yourself eating because your friends or partner are eating. You tend to eat more when in company and usually you find yourself eating the same things that others are eating. It is important to remember that women don't need as much food as men, so reduce your portions accordingly. Talk to your partner and friends and let them know your goals and ask them to help you with your choices. When eating out, share a dessert if you're having one or have a starter size main meal or skip the starter. You don't have to deprive yourself, just be aware of your choices.