If you're trying to shed a few extra pounds, interacting with other dieters may bring an extra measure of success.

A recent study revealed that people who participated in group therapy with other dieters lost more weight on average compared to people who tried to go it alone. Even people who expressed a preference for individual weight-loss programs appeared to fare better in the group atmosphere.

RealAge Benefit: Maintaining your weight and body mass index at a desirable level can make your RealAge as much as 6 years younger

In Good Time

If your New Year's resolutions include losing weight, give yourself the best chance to succeed by making changes gradually.

In one study of people who were successful at losing weight, making gradual changes over a long period of time appeared to be one of the keys to keeping the weight off. Instead of drastically reducing your calorie or fat intake, make small, sustainable, incremental changes to your diet.

RealAge Benefit: Maintaining your weight and body mass index at a desirable level can make your RealAge as much as 6 years younger

No Skippers

If you think that skipping breakfast puts you on the fast track to losing weight, you may be in for a long haul.

A recent review of the eating habits of successful dieters revealed that most of the people who were successful at maintaining their weight loss made breakfast a regular part of their mornings. Eating breakfast can help keep your hunger in check so that you don't overeat later in the day.

RealAge Benefit: Eating breakfast can make your RealAge as much as 1.1 years younger.

Peanut Butter Losers

For extra sticking power, add a dab of peanut butter to your diet.

Moderate amounts of healthy fat, such as those found in peanuts and peanut butter, may bolster your weight loss efforts. In a recent study of people on a reduced-calorie diet, participants who included moderate portions of peanuts, peanut butter, and healthy oils in the diet were more likely to stick with the weight loss plan.

RealAge Benefit: Eating a diverse diet that is low in calories and high in nutrients can make your RealAge as much as 4 years younger

Fewer Sips to Slim

Taking fewer sips of your favorite soda may help you stay slim.

Researchers estimate that over the past 40 years, daily caloric intake has increased by 75 calories per day, an amount that could cause weight gain over time. Replace one of your favorite sweet drinks with a bottle of water each day for a quick and slimming calorie cut.

RealAge Benefit: Maintaining your weight and body mass index at a desirable level can make your RealAge as much as 6 years younger.

Over time, a few extra calories each day could lead to middle-aged weight gain. However, research shows that cutting even a mere 100 calories per day could help prevent the weight gain that is common in middle age. One hundred calories would be the equivalent of about half a can of cola, half a large cookie, or one thick slice of white bread.

Muscle Out the Middle

Women who wish for a smaller middle may want to try a weight-training program.

A recent study revealed that older women who participated in a strength-training program three times per week lost a significant amount of abdominal fat as a result. Significant strength gains also were recorded by the study participants.

RealAge Benefit: Strength training can make your RealAge 1 year younger.