By making slow changes to diet and lifestyle over time, you are more likely to stay motivated. Start with small goals - lose 5 pounds by June and exercise 3-4 times a week, for example.
Make an appointment with a certified nutritionist or dietician - don't rely on fad diets like South Beach, etc. Go with good, solid science.
Get a list of low glycemic index foods - these help maintain a steady blood sugar and really fill you up w/o adding a host of calories. (
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&i...=Google+Search)
Avoid processed foods, especially foods aimed at helping dieters (lo-fat, lo-carb processed snacks, etc.). The closer your foods are to nature, the better they are for you. Avoid white foods (white bread, white rice, white potatoes). Avoid vegetables that grown underground (potatoes, carrots, etc.). The only exception to that is sweet potato, which has a low glycemic index and offers a lot of fiber and vitamins.
Learn moderation. It's OK to have 1 cookie on occasion.
Drink more water - at least 8 glasses a day. I find I drink more water when I use a sports mug with a straw, rather than drinking straight from a glass.
Find activities that you enjoy and use those to round out your exercise regime. Walking, hiking, biking, tennis, yardwork all burn calories. You don't have to to it in a gym or on a piece of expensive equipment.