Weight Loss Plans


There are so many weight loss plans on the market. Obviously, you are thinking of choosing one for yourself or maybe for your spouse or children. Weight loss plans are available for those who are diabetic, vegetarian, teens, and adults. You may be either obese or overweight. Now you’re thinking, what is the difference?

The difference lies in your BMI. My what? Ok it works like this. Determine your height and weight to calculate a number called body mass index (BMI). Why use the BMI? Well, for most people, the BMI correlates with their amount of body fat. Basically, here is the bottom line for adults. If your BMI is between 25 and 29.9, you are overweight. If your BMI is 30 or higher, you are obese, which poses more health risks. You really need to choose one of the various types of weight loss plans.

Choose one that is suitable for your lifestyle and medical condition. If you are obese, please see a doctor to talk about the weight loss plans that you are most likely to succeed at. If you are found to be grossly obese, you may need to see a Registered Dietician. Obesity is too common is this country and leads to serious health problems. As a Registered Nurse, I have seen the problems and friends, they are not pretty. Some are fatal.

You’re thinking OK, what about the weight loss plans? Think about what you really want and/or need and especially what you can afford if you decide to enroll in one of the weight loss plans requiring a weekly, monthly or annual payment. You may purchase software or a book in some cases. So let’s take a walk down the avenue of weight loss plans. Among the weight loss plans that one must pay, I would list Weight Watchers, Atkins Diet, Dean Ornish Diet, eDiets.com, Jenny Craig, Slim-Fast and South Beach Diet among the best.

You may be thinking I want to lose weight without choosing one of these weight loss plans. Ok let’s go there. Think about the level of discipline and motivation you have as well as someone who can provide emotional support to give you the much needed pat on the back at times.

Here are some important facts to remember. First, choose the amount of calories you intend to consume per day. This is very important and it include when you shop and dine out. The most successful weight loss plans consider calorie counting as a key element in losing weight. If you are not going to count calories, forget it and starting budgeting for bigger clothes. Now is an important time to be honest with yourself. Second, think about how many pounds you want to lose. Honestly, 1-2 pounds per week sound healthy and realistic. Third, you must exercise in order for your plan to be successful. Did I ruin your day with that statement? Sorry, but it is true. You can thank me later and we’ll sing Kumbaya. Ok, just say thanks.

Depending on your needs and goals, you may consider a low-fat, glycemic-index or a low-carb diet among the weight loss plans.  You might consider diet pills or meal replacements to go along with your diet plan. If you choose to consume diet pills, be aware of potential side effects so read the bottle very careful. The results could be harmful.

Well I know this is a very short look at the weight loss plans on the market but it will be modified from time-to-time so check back.