Weight loss is the number one concern of millions of people around the globe. Many try, a few succeed but most fail in the battle against the extra pounds. So is it really that difficult to lose weight? What does it take to shake off the excess weight and make sure you will never be fat again? Well, the answer to that question can be quantified in one word: determination.

That's right, it takes a lot of determination, persistence and will power to lose weight. Most people fail because they believe that a two months diet is all it takes and that after they've managed to lose a few pounds they can go back to their old habits. This only ends in frustration as most will get even fatter then they were before they started the diet in the first place. If you want to lose the extra weight for good you will have to change your entire life style and not just go on a diet for a few months. Losing weight usually involves two things: changing eating habits and exercise.

There is no secret to it: if you want to get thinner you will have to eat less and exercise more. However, if you are obese, intense exercise might harm you more then help you so talk to your doctor and let him know that you plan on losing weight and that you will need some basic guidelines from him. Don't set out on your own as obesity is often associated with high blood pressure which can lead to heart attack if combined with intense exercise.

The adjustments you make to your diet shouldn't be radical and sudden. Try to eliminate the really bad things first: sugar packed drinks and extra fatty foods. Most people will experience a noticeable drop in weight after taking these "caloric terrorists" out of their diet. After a few weeks of adjustment you can then start taking more action by adding healthy foods to your diet and eliminating the ones that contain mostly fat, sugar and "empty calories".

And remember, weight loss is a long and tedious process but the people that have been successful have found ways of making it simple and fun. So don't abandon the struggle and you will soon be able to enjoy a fitter, healthier and more attractive you.