Hitting a weight-loss plateau can be one of the biggest setbacks of any diet or weight loss program, but there are several ways to overcome this obstacle and sustain healthy weight loss for the long-term.

However, there are several ways you can adjust your lifestyle and make small changes to your daily routine so that your metabolism is running at peak efficiency, helping you to lose weight gradually and in a healthy way. Avoid the frustration that comes with hitting a plateau by making sure you're not falling for any of these 10 diet traps:

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1. Eating after 8 p.m. Your body is burning calories at a very high rate during the day, and daytime is the best time to eat your largest meals. Eating a heavy meal too late in the day can leave you feeling lethargic and tired the following day and may even slow down your metabolism. Plan your meals appropriately so you can actually burn off what you eat each and every day.

2. Eating unhealthy snacks. Extra calories from candy at the office, dessert after dinner or simply eating when you're stressed out can add up fast. Keep track of your food with a food diary so you know exactly what and why you're eating.