Weight loss and weight maintenance are top concerns for most of us, but there are so many rumors and fads out there that it's hard to keep track of what really works. We've sorted through the claims by talking to registered dietitians and doctors and reading the most recent studies to give you trustworthy answers to top weight loss questions, including:

How do I conquer a food craving?

Should I cut carbs to lose weight?

Is it true that eating after 8 p.m. makes you put on pounds?

How often should I weigh myself?

Get all the answers here.

1. Is it okay to eat after 8 p.m.?
It is definitely okay to eat after 8 p.m. There is no magic hour after which anything you put in your mouth will suddenly cause you to gain weight! It’s not when you eat, but what you eat later in the day that can cause your body to store fat. If you’re hungry after sundown or haven’t yet had your dinner, eat! Just make this a lighter meal, like a fresh, leafy green salad with some chopped chicken. It will be much easier to sleep if your body isn’t trying to digest a heavy, high-calorie meal. If you’re snacking mindlessly in front of the TV all night, that’s when you’ll notice the scale going up.

2. Is it expensive to eat clean?
Eating clean is doable on a budget. Here’s how:
  1. Stick to fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season.
  2. Don’t fall for overpriced pre-cut, packaged produce or “100 calorie” snack packs. Instead, make your own. Divide nuts or chopped veggies into containers so they’re more convenient.
  3. Purchase only what you think you will use and try splitting items with a clean-eating friend. For example, one week you get the bundle of mixed greens while your friend gets the container of strawberries – divide them and share!
When shopping for groceries, consider what the cost of your health will be in the future if you don’t eat clean and exercise today.