Endless sameness is one reason prepared liquid diets work well for many people. Boring, but not unbalanced. And don't go below 1,000 calories a day. Don't lie about your calorie intake. Keep a food diary.
Exercise is vital.
Here are smart ways to sweat. A study of formerly obese patients who kept weight off for years found that commitment to vigorous exercise is the best predictor of success. In fact, science says it's better to burn calories than cut them. Burning the same number of calories through exercise can boost metabolism and suppress appetite. Plus, exercise can counteract any fat-guarding legacy you have inherited.