The success of the GI diet over the past few years is testament to people's desire to lose weight but also eat healthy food.

The GI diet is based on how quickly carbohydrates are digested and release their sugars into the bloodstream. On the GI diet you aim to avoid foods with a high Glycaemic score, because their energy is rapidly burned up, and you quickly become hungry again.

By contrast, lower rated foods release their energy slowly, leaving you feeling satisfied longer, and reducing the urge to snack.

The great thing about this plan is that because it came out of research, rather than being celebrity led, that there are numerous books on the market explaining it.

There are plenty of general explanations, plus a range of books tailored for specific populations - for example for families, for busy people, one that integrates walking, and so on.

The best bet is to take a look at several different books and see which one would work for you. Check out the different eating plans, the recipes, how much exercise is involved and so on, and you'll soon find something that will help you get rid of those pesky extra pounds.