by Haley Whitewood

Created on: October 31, 2006   Last Updated: April 18, 2007

Losing weight safely

There are many diets out there claiming they will help you lose weight. Some will. But how many can help you lose weight safely? There are things to consider when choosing a method to lose weight.

1. You need carbs!

Carbohydrates are your body's primary source of energy. It is desirable not to consume too many carbs. When eaten in moderation, your body may turn to fat for the extra energy, causing you to lose excess fat. But if your fat runs dangerously low, as may be the case for people who eat too little carbohydrates (yes carbs , not fat), your body will turn to protein as its energy source and you will begin to lose muscle mass. Needless to say, things get ugly from there.

2. Wait! Don't throw that chocolate ice cream away just yet!

One of the most important things with a diet is that you are enjoying yourself. Depriving yourself of all the foods you love will put you in danger of binging on your diet. Eat a little bit of ice cream as a treat for desert, but couple it with healthy foods, like strawberries.

3. Never sacrifice nutrients.

Don't commit to diets that have you eating abnormally high servings from one food group while ignoring the rest. All the food groups, including fats and oils, are vital for good health. Balance them out!

4. "I lost 25 lbs in 3 weeks on ....!"

Any diet that has you losing more than 3 lbs a week is not a smart one to uptake. I you lose too much weight in too little time, your body runs the risk of going into shock. Lose the weight gradually for healthier results and the satisfaction of hard work.

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