Dieting? Here are some common mistakes

You might think you're taking big steps to lose weight, but experts say your effort could actually backfire.

Registered dietitians say one of the most common things they see is people not eating enough, or eating the wrong foods.

Some people think if they skip meals, it will lead to weight loss. But in reality, you'll be more likely to binge eat and, in the long run, eat more calories.

Also, counting calories alone could set you up for failure.

You want to be picky about where your calories are coming from. Dieticians say eating more fruit, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains and healthy fats will help you feel fuller longer and can decrease cravings.

Overall you want to make small changes that stick.

"When you change how you're eating, you look at it as something you can do long term. So that's that lifestyle change, something you can do forever," said Laura Jeffers, R.D. of the Cleveland Clinic.

Experts also say that while you should cut back on sweets and dessert, you can allow yourself a treat every once in a while.

That may help you stick to your healthy eating plan.