How to Learn About Losing Weight

Weight loss is more than shedding a few pounds. It is a commitment to a lifestyle of proper eating and exercise. The change is best made after research to differentiate the fads from the information that will actually help you. Fortunately, the U.S. government, your doctor and many medical institutions offer resources to help you learn how to lose weight. You just have to know where to find them.

Instructions

• 1

  Talk to your doctor. The person that knows your medical history and current ailments is the best reference on the best weight loss plan for you. Doctors can tailor a diet and exercise plan for people with heart conditions, diabetes, metabolic conditions, as well as for people who may be at risk of such conditions.

• 2

  Study the U.S. Department of Agriculture's diet food suggestions. Also called the USDA, the agency has created and revised the food pyramid over the years for use as a guide to food servings needed for a healthy body. The agency also supplies guides for people looking to lose weight, like the resource "Steps to a Healthier Weight". Explore the mypyramid.gov site for information on the types of foods you should eat, as well as the appropriate portions.

• 3

  Consult some of the leading medical institutions in the U.S. for information. The Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins and many more offer weight management information and programs. Much of the information is outside the realm of weight loss surgery. The hospitals offer plans, diet and exercise suggestions, plus links to other resources. To find more of these, perform a search using weight loss keywords followed by a space and either .org or .edu.

• 4

  Contact a commercial weight control program. The popular ones such as Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig and Nutrisystem all offer resources for people looking to lose weight. Their programs are designed to give people a boost in establishing the lifestyle necessary to lose weight, and maintain the new healthier weight. Use the resources offered by these programs in your research of weightloss methods, as each has a different means for reducing body fat.