In order to lose weight, you need to create a calorie deficit. And while reducing the number of calories in your diet is one way to do this, skipping an entire meal is not the way to go. Starving the body can slow down its metabolism and lead to overeating later. And let's face it, if you're running on empty, you won't have the energy for a calorie-crushing workout later. Beyond adopting a healthier diet in general, the best way to reduce your calorie intake is to find ways to make healthy swaps in your favorite foods and also by choosing lower-calorie foods that are high in fiber, protein, or whole grains, which can better keep you full.

Working out is definitely part of the weight-loss equation, but if you think it means you can eat whatever you want, you're not going to be happy with the results. Keep in mind that a 30-minute run at a pace of six mph burns about 270 calories. In order to lose a pound a week, you need to burn or cut out 500 calories a day. So that means coupled with your 30-minute workout, you still need to cut out 230 calories from your diet, which most likely does not translate to eating everything in sight. Research actually proves that "abs are made in the kitchen," which means that what you eat - focusing on eating healthy portions throughout the day - can be even more important than how much you work out.