What's the best way to lose weight?
Consumers today are constantly being bombarded with messages of how to lose weight. It seems almost daily there is a new diet, method or pill being introduced to the huge market of people seeking the quick fix. Millions of Americans are currently classified as obese and many of those are seeking some sort of answer to the problem of sedentary lives punctuated with stops at fast food establishments. The choices can be endless-herbal supplement versus pharmaceutical, surgery or liquid diet the list goes on and on.
For the last 30 years several different medications have been placed on the market and advertised as weight-loss aids. Many of the claims they make are outrageous and should be considered carefully as evidenced by the many medical problems reported by the users of these products. Some of the claims of these medications have been so overstated that many have been pulled off the market after serious health problems surfaced in many customers that were taking them. Vitamin type supplements and herbal remedies have been espoused by many in the weight-loss market. The consumer considering this option should know that these types of products are not FDA regulated and should be taken with the utmost careful consideration.
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Diets themselves seem to make up the majority of this market each touting their program as the way to success. There are franchise diet organizations that provide a "counselor" along with a food plan, there are programs that ship the food directly to the consumers home and there are countless food plans that can be accessed through books and on-line. Many of these diets espouse a certain principle in their weight-loss philosophy. These may include: low or no carbohydrates, low fat, no dairy, vegetarian or any possible configuration. Some diets require an extremely low caloric intake. While other diets propose "meal replacement" options with shakes or bars. Other diets have as their basis a complete protein liquid diet usually done with medical supervision for the chronically obese. While some diets are nutritionally based and can help conditions such as high cholesterol or high blood sugar the consumer must become educated about the basics of nutrition, weight loss and overall health before making an educated decision. In addition anyone beginning a diet should consult their physician to discuss the proper options for their situation.
Sometimes surgery is considered an option for those who are severely overweight and have been for the long-term. This decision can be vastly life-changing and some people do have positive results but again this should be discussed with medical professionals and weighed against the risk of surgery and other possible complications and side effects.
So where does this leave the bewildered consumer hoping to find the magic cure to the lingering and sometimes frustrating problem of weight-loss? The reality of the situation is there is not magic cure! Experts in all related fields agree on the following nutritional principles in the battle of weight-loss-
1. Real weight loss can only occur with a life-style change not just a periodic diet. This life-style change must include the principles of good nutrition in the consumer's daily choices (i.e.-lower fat, more fruit & veggies, drinking water etc.)
2. The only long-term way to lose weight is to take in fewer calories.
3. Any reduction in calories should also include exercise to help develop muscle and lose fat.
4. To maintain weight loss experts recommend setting a goal of losing approximately 2 pounds per week. This amount is an attainable goal that will help in both the weight loss and weight maintenance.
Again, any person considering a diet or comparable life-style change should consult their physician before beginning any program. A nutritionist, exercise trainer or dietician can also provide additional help.
