If you are reading this article, you are having the same trouble I was. You may have tried diets, exercise programs, crazy pills, or even starvation. So many of us are overweight, and while the concept of actually losing that excess fat seems simple, the reality of it escapes us. So, what should we do? Resign ourselves to an unhappy, unhealthy and lethargic life? Continue to dread trips to buy clothes, every time going up another size? No, we do not need to suffer. I have found the answers to my weight issue, and I hope to help you find the answers to yours.

The Basics of Weight Loss

In a nutshell, you must intake (eat) fewer calories than you output (burn off). Although this seems a simple concept, it is difficult in practice for those who love a lazy lifestyle and fatty foods (me!). There are many ways to accomplish this seemingly simple goal such as: exercise more, eat less, eat healthier, and other less healthy ways, but we will stick to methods that IMPROVE your health. If you intake more calories than you output your body will store these calories as fat for later use. For you that means another increase in size, and possible health issues down the road.

The Dangers of Being Overweight

A person is considered OBESE if you weigh 20% over your ideal body weight. Being obese can lead to serious health issues. These may include high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, and physical discomfort to name a few. There is an upside however, if you are obese and unhealthy you CAN change it! You can become healthier!

What can I do?

Start by figuring out how many calories you need to maintain your current weight. Using a BMI Calculator you can determine that information. There are many free BMI calculators available online. Then, make SMALL changes. The smaller the better in the beginning. Start to cut down your calories. There are many tools online to help you count your calories. http://www.caloriecount.com is a great website that also provides an online food journal for free. Try eating grilled foods instead of fried, incorporate more fruits and vegetables. Figure out what works for your lifestyle.

Exercise......

I love sitting on the couch, but let's be honest with ourselves; it is unhealthy to do it all the time! Exercise will speed up your road to weight loss. ANY exercise. What do you like to do? I love to walk my dog. As I already discussed above, start small. I might set a goal for my first week such as: "I will walk my dog around the block every day." It is a short walk, but I will feel like I accomplished my goal. Increase your exercise the next week. Small steps and changes soon become habit. You CAN be successful.

There are many diet programs on the market that will promise you quick weight loss while you eat all you want! If they sound too good to be true, they are. You must decide that this is important enough to change your lifestyle. Remember, small changes and before you know it you will be a healthier happier person.

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