Where to Start When You Want to Lose Weight

By John D Scott

When it comes to losing weight, trust me, you are not alone. It's estimated that over half of the American population is overweight and the majority of those people are in some way or another involved in some sort of diet or otherwise in the efforts to shed off those extra pounds.

The most difficult thing to decide once you've finally decided to get started with weight loss is actually picking a weight loss program. With all the weight loss programs that now exist there are so many things people have to consider and have to watch out for as well. You really have to make sure that you find the weight loss program that is right for you and getting to that point is often very difficult.

Here's a little check list you might want to consider before you make a decision:


1. Check with you doctor before making any decision which regards your health.
There are many weight loss methods and programs that exist out there today that can be harmful to your health if you are not careful. For this reason, it is very important to speak to a health care provider before you take anything or do anything, just to be on the safe side.

2. Keep a diary.
It has been proven by nutritionists and health care providers alike that weight loss success rates are much higher when the person has a record of what they are consuming. Jotting down what you eat when you eat it and writing your feelings about it and the situation can help you look back and find patterns, good and bad habits, etc. and will help you be a huge help to yourself, almost like an outsider looking in. Your ability to analyze your behavior is an extremely helpful tool for weight loss.

3. Know your health risk factor.
It is very important to know where you lie as far as your health is concerned. If you are person just looking to shed off a few extra pounds you don't have to worry as much as someone who needs to drop the weight based on a health risk (usually a BMI of over 30 is something to be concerned about).

4. Research
There are many programs out there that promise weight loss but have a lot of risk factors you need to consider before using them. If you are interested in a particular method, research it well and then determine whether you are okay with the risks involved (if any) and whether it seems to be something that fits you personally.

5. Know what you're buying.
Once you decide to buy a product, make sure you know exactly what you are getting. Remember, there are a lot of people looking to get a quick buck by ripping people off and selling something that really doesn't work like they say it does.

Don't be afraid to ask questions like what does the program include? How many calories will I be allowed? Do I need to take extra supplements? Is anything forbidden? What will I mostly be eating? Will I have to exercise? Does the food plan change as the program moves along?

Being informed will keep you on top of your game and avoid you being ripped off or cheated by anybody looking for a quick buck. You should know that when a plan has zero physical activity, it probably isn't good for you. Also, when a plan requires too many additional supplements or too little calories are also causes for concern.
The article is posted and written by John Scott, the researcher and writer for compareop.com (Phentermine OPs Reports and Discussion board).
Tags:dieting, appetite suppressants, weight loss.