One of the pitfalls of trying to shed pounds is hitting a plateau. “When you restrict calories, your metabolism slows down – your body is trying to hold on to the fat it has left,” says NYC nutritionist Natalie Rosenstock. These diet strategies will help you get over the hump.

1. Eat More Protein
You need protein to build and repair muscle tissue, so add an extra serving a day (e.g., substitute a handful of almonds or a few slices of hard cheese for your usual midday cookie).

2. Lift Weights
The more lean muscle mass you have, the more calories you burn all day long. Tack on an extra day of resistance training or lift heavier weights during your typical workout sessions.

3. Do Cardio Longer
Relax – we don’t mean adding a whole hour. Push yourself just 10 minutes longer to burn extra calories and up your metabolism.