How to Lose Weight With a Management Program

Losing weight can seem like an uphill battle, especially after years of poor health habits and a lack of direction. However, it's important to remember that weight management programs are not meant as a one size fits all solution. What works for another person might not work for you, which is why it's important to involve your health care provider when you're ready to choose a management program. By carefully selecting a plan based on your habits, lifestyle and goals, you have a better chance at weight loss success

Tips For You

1. Schedule a visit with your doctor to talk about your specific weight loss goals and the various management programs that are available to you. Consider what would be right for your lifestyle, weight, goals and circumstances. Your doctor knows your health history and can make suggestions for a healthy, sensible weight management program, including meeting with a nutritionist and getting 30 minutes of cardio five times per week.
2. Research various weight management programs and choose one that has the markings of healthy, sensible weight loss. Any weight loss program that claims to help you lose large amounts of weight very quickly, or promises weight loss with little effort or lifestyle changes, should be disregarded. Instead, look for a management plan that emphasizes gradual progress with daily exercise and a diet that includes high-quality foods high in nutritional value yet low in fat and calories.
3. Set realistic goals for your weight management program. Making a goal to lose 50 pounds might seem admirable, but it can detract from your small, steady progress and make you feel far from your goal. Instead, try small, manageable goals that contribute to the greater good. Examples like losing two pounds per week, packing your lunch instead of getting fast food or exercising every day for a week are great goals to start with. Smaller, practical goals will help you stay on track as well.
4. Get support for your weight management plan. Whether its a counselor, physician, trainer or a public health forum; having support with tracking your progress helps you stay accountable and learn healthy ways to remain motivated for a positive experience.
5. Evaluate your weight management plan after six to eight weeks to see if your weight loss goals are being met. Because some weight management programs work better for others, you might find a plan too restrictive or not as effective as you'd hoped. Another weight management plan might be a better fit for your lifestyle, so research and find another one that might work better for you.