by Dorann Winburn

Created on: October 21, 2010

Our weight is a number that most of us struggle with because right now the number of obese and overweight Americans is at an all-time high. However there are a lot things that we can do to lose weight and keep it off. By following all of the following guidelines you too will be able to share a weight loss success story.

Though it might sound very cliche to hear that you should consult with your physician before starting any weight loss regimen, this is a very important first step for many reasons. The main reason you should consult with a doctor prior to starting your weight loss regimen is that they will be able to diagnose any underlying medical conditions you may have that could hinder your weight loss journey. Some other reasons to visit your doctor include: recommending a workout that is appropriate for you. Finally, your doctor will probably be able to outline dietary changes that you should make or recommend a nutritionist to follow up with.

In order to achieve weight loss there are two main aspects of your life that will need some degree of modification. These two things are your diet and your level of activity. If these aren't done together then having success with weight loss will be difficult, if not impossible. In short, the proper formula to lose weight is to burn more energy than you put into your body (or consume). However, this is more difficult to achieve than the simple equation because you have to make sure you are eating enough to keep your body from entering starvation mode. A starving person cannot easily lose weight.

When it comes to the ideal diet, a lot of people that have been successful in losing weight and keeping it off suggest moderation instead of isolation. This means that you can lose weight while still enjoying the foods that you love, you just need to pay attention to portion sizes and also your recommended daily caloric intake. One thing that is important to remember, however, is that you should try to avoid eating too much convenience food because those foods are loaded with fat and sodium, which will both hinder weight loss.

When it comes to the exercise aspect of losing weight, you don't have to feel like ti can only be done at the gym with a trainer because this simply isn't the truth. Fat burning exercise doesn't have to be limited to the gym. The thing that is important is simply that you move. During the more temperate parts of the year you can walk or cycle outside. You can even exercise in the comfort of your own home using guided DVDs or even your stairs. Of course occasional visits to the gym are beneficial as well to keep you motivated. It is also important that you not try to do it alone, if you develop a relationship with someone as an accountability partner, you will never be alone.

Eventually you will reach your goal weight which means that the battle has been won but the war isn't over. You will be facing battles of this war for the rest of your life and that is where maintenance comes into play. When attempting to maintain your weight you want your caloric intake and your energy expended to be roughly equal.

Remember that even though it won't be easy, the battle of achieving long-term weight loss success is within reach.

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