For Successful Weight Loss, Follow Guidelines that Work
Weight  management is a process. For some, it is a struggle that can last a lifetime. It always takes sincere effort and commitment. Before you enroll in any diet or weight loss program, ask yourself what your ultimate goals are. No program is worth the effort (and money) if you don’t eventually succeed in controlling your weight for good. While intensive quick-fix diets can be an attractive option for rapid weight loss, they seldom let you manage your weight over time. Keep in mind that weight loss itself should not be your only goal. The reason why you want to return to your ideal body weight is to be more healthy and fit, feel better and live a more satisfying and fulfilling life.
Before You Try Losing Weight…
If you are pregnant, it is not a good idea to try losing weight. Depriving your body of nutrients can be dangerous for the health of a fetus. Children and teenager should not undergo weight loss programs and diets without the advice and supervision of a physician. It can adversely affect their growth and overall health. Instead of dieting, intense physical activity and healthy eating habits may be sufficient to overcome weight issues at this early age and may continue to have beneficial effects throughout adulthood.
Adults attempting weight loss should aim for not more than a loss of 2 pounds per week, unless they are in a emergency situation and are under medical care. Rapid weight loss may involve serious health risks.
Essentially, weight loss occurs when there is a calorie imbalance that causes fat to be mobilized and utilized as fuel.  One pound of fat provides about 3500 calories of fuel. Cutting back as little as 500 calories per day can achieve an average weight loss of one pound per week!  However, cutbacks in calories should never result in deprivation of essential nutrients. As a matter of fact, it is even more important that the body receives all the nutrients it needs while you are on a diet.
Rapid weight loss should always be monitored by a physician. If you take prescription medication or have a particular health problem to consider, if you smoke, are over 35 years of age, or have a sedentary lifestyle, it is strongly recommended you undergo a physical examination before beginning any weight loss, diet or exercise changes.
It is important to pace yourself when you diet and/or increase your exercise regimen. Remember, this is a long term process. You don’t want to get to the finsish line in a hurry and then be too exhausted to keep up your efforts any longer.
