The Word on Weightloss

Weight loss programs are abundant. Most people trying to lose weight don’t have trouble finding a certified weight loss program. Instead, they need help deciding which program provides the best way to lose weight. In order to find the right weight loss program, it is important to take many factors into consideration.

Make an Assessment
First, determine whether you need to lose weight or simply not gain any more. Both underestimating and overestimating how much weight you need to lose can be dangerous. Go to a qualified medical website like the National Institutes of Health to calculate your body mass index (BMI). A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is normal. A BMI less than 18.5 means that you are underweight; a BMI greater than 25 means that you are overweight. Don’t be alarmed if you are slightly overweight. There are many weight loss programs that will not only improve your BMI but also your overall health.

Characteristics of Good Certified Weight Loss Programs
If you have determined that you need to lose some weight, start looking into a certified weight loss program. The best weight loss programs should be characterized by:

• Consistent exercise
• Balanced diets
• Healthy food choices
• Gradual weight loss (1/2-2 lbs. per week)
• Ease of use
• Safe use of medications

Effective certified weight loss programs will also offer post-program assistance so that you don’t regain the weight. Remember that the best weight loss programs are those that support a healthy lifestyle and healthy eating habits. Consistency is critical.

Characteristics of a Poor Weight Loss Program
Don’t feel overwhelmed by the number of programs or get tricked by false claims that you can lose weight in an incredibly short time. Instead, assess your options pragmatically and objectively. Poor weight loss programs are characterized by:

• Removal of food groups
• Disregard for culture or lifestyle
• Unrealistic expectations or changes
• Risk of other serious health problems
• Overuse of medications

Always be careful dealing with weight loss. Although losing weight can improve your overall health, a poorly designed program can leave you even more overweight, depressed and unhealthy.

Practical Steps to Weight Loss
Start by talking to your physician or other health specialist. Bring a list of questions to ask and bring something with you to take notes. Perhaps your weight gain is caused by hypothyroidism, a medical condition that slows metabolism. Your physician will also know if your prescriptions are compatible with any weight-loss medications.

Next, compare certified weight loss programs using the criteria listed above. Also factor in the program’s cost and success rate. How many people lose weight for good? How many regain the weight soon after completing the program? How qualified are the program’s developers? Take the time to research the answers to these questions so that you don’t have to learn by experience.

Finally, find a good friend to be your accountability partner and to keep you on track. Losing weight is hard work and you’ll need someone to encourage you when it gets difficult. Your friend can make sure you don’t develop physical or emotional challenges.

If you consider all these factors when finding certified weight loss program, you can be sure that you are making a wise, healthy decision and choosing the best weight loss program for you!