How to Choose the Right Weight Loss Program for your Needs

Many people turn to weight-loss programs for help in planning a
daily diet and changing lifestyle habits. Before you begin a
weight loss program, see your doctor for advice about your
overall health risks and the weight loss options best for you.
Health experts agree that the best and safest way for most
adults to lose weight and improve their health is to modestly
cut calories, eat a balanced diet and be physically active each
day.

What you weigh is the result of several factors:

- The food you eat / how much food you eat – Age and health
status. – Lifestyle (includes regular physical activity) -
Whether you use food to respond to stress and other situations
in your life – Physiologic and genetic make-up

You need to take these factors into consideration when choosing
a weight loss program. Successful weight loss and weight
management should address all of these factors. When shopping
for a weight loss program, ask for details about what foods and
how many calories you’ll eat each day, and whether the program
includes regular physical activity. Avoid any weight loss
programs that claim that you can lose weight and keep it off
without changing the foods you eat or increasing your physical
activity.

A sensible weight loss program encourages you to follow advice
from the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, such as eating at
least five daily servings of fruits and vegetables, and choosing
grains (including whole grains), lean meats and low-fat or
fat-free dairy products. A good weight loss program will provide
information that will help you make an informed decision.

Before you sign up for any weight loss program, make sure you
have enough information about the following:

- Their staff members training, experience and credentials. -
The risks of using the product or services. – All the costs of
the program – Studies that show what percentage of all customers
have completed the program, how much weight they lost, and how
successfully they’ve kept the weight off over a one-year period
or longer.

The program should teach you how to change permanently those
eating habits and lifestyle factors, such as lack of physical
activity that have contributed to weight gain.

To improve your chances for success, you should choose programs
that focus on long-term weight management; provide instruction
in healthful eating, increasing activity, and improving
self-esteem; and address the potential health risks from weight
loss. Some people lose weight on their own; others like the
support of a structured program. Whether you lose weight on your
own or with a group, remember that the most important changes
are long term. Quick weight loss methods don’t provide lasting
results. Unless your health is seriously at risk due to
complications from being overweight or obese, gradual weight
loss should be your rule and your goal.

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