How to Lose 24 Pounds in Six Weeks

Losing weight can be stressful, particularly when you want to do it within a time frame. Losing 24 lbs. in six weeks will give you a goal of losing 4 lbs. a week. However, losing more than 2 lbs. weekly is not recommended by the Mayo Clinic. Changing your diet and developing an exercise routine will help you get healthy and drop the weight. Stay focused with hard work and perseverance to achieve your weight loss goals.

Things You'll Need

• Calendar
• Journal
• Gym membership (optional)

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Instructions

• 1

  Mark six weeks on a calendar. Hang the calendar in the kitchen or your bedroom for a visual reminder of your weight loss goal. Cross off each day as it passes.

• 2

  Create a meal plan. Incorporate whole grains, fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. MyPyramid can guide you to choose a healthy meal plan. Use an online calorie counter to factor how many calories you're consuming and burning.

• 3

  Commit to your scheduled meals and snacks. This will prevent over-eating. Cut your portion size and eat slowly. Eating slower will help your body realize when it is full. Eating too fast does not give the body enough reaction time. Also, consider preparing meals at home and packing your lunch for work. Also, cut out all saturated fats and processed foods in your diet and avoid sugars, pasta and rice. Instead, focus on foods with whole grains. Purchase a low-fat cookbook to mix up your recipes and learn new techniques in the kitchen.

• 4

  Drink eight glasses of water a day. Drinking water will help you get rid of the water weight your body is storing and flush the body from any toxins. Water can also suppress your appetite. Keep a water bottle with you wherever you go. Replace soda and other soft drinks with water at every meal.

• 5

  Exercise every day. Heightened activity will boost your body's metabolism and burn fat. Include strength training, stretching, and running. Mix up your routine for effective results. Recruit a friend as a workout buddy or hire a trainer. Working out with someone will motivate you and keep you accountable to the workouts.

• 6

  Keep a journal. Write down what you eat, what exercise you did or any new recipes you tried. The Healthy Weight Forum uses a calorie calculator to asses how many calories you should eat based on height, weight, activity level and your weight loss goal. Running one mile will burn an average of 100 calories. Weigh-in once a week and write down how many pounds you have to lose to reach your 24 lb. weight loss goal. Reward yourself when you attain your goal -- a new outfit, night out or anything you have been desiring will help reinforce your commitment.