What is the safest way to lose weight, and to keep it off?
Fad diets are not the answer to this very important question. To lose weight safely entails a complete lifestyle change. To achieve gradual and long-term weight loss, there are 3 important components: decreasing calorie intake, increasing physical activity, and behavior modification. A decrease of 500 calories a day will promote a 1 pound per week weight loss. Losing 4-5 pounds per month is a safe indicator of weight loss. A weight loss diet should be balanced and nutritionally adequate. Estimating individual calorie needs to promote each person’s weight loss can be determined by your Registered Dietitian. Increasing physical activity will result in energy expenditure. The amount of weight loss depends on the intensity, duration and type of exercise. By combining aerobic exercise (walking, step aerobics, etc) and weight training you could lose inches and build muscle to become toned. Building muscle mass improves heart rate. Adherence to an exercise program is necessary to lose weight
