(HealthDay News) -- Keeping track of all the foods you eat each day can help you lose weight and keep it off, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

The clinic offers these suggestions for starting a food diary:

• Use a notebook, computer or other electronic device.
• Write down what you eat and drink as you consume each item, as well as the date and time. Be as specific as you can.
• Designate columns for whenyou ate, whatyou ate, howyou felt and how muchexercise you got that day.
• Review your journal and analyze your eating habits. Look for scenarios (such as eating out) or emotions that trigger unhealthy choices.