Inexpensive Weight Loss Plans

Losing weight does not need to cost a lot of money. Fortunately, joining an expensive diet center and buying special foods are not requirements for weight loss success. Of the more than 5,000 members of the National Weight Control Registry who both lost and continue to maintain weight losses between 30 and 250 pounds, 45 percent lost weight without the use of a formal program.

Benefits

Losing weight has proven benefits to your health and well-being. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that losing just a small percentage of your body weight can reduce some of your risk of obesity-related diseases and illnesses. Losing weight using an inexpensive plan offers you the benefit of being able to try a plan for a specified period of time without financial commitment. Additionally, you can spend the money you save on a weight loss program on a well-fitted pair of shoes, a gym membership or to purchase healthy food.

Characteristics

An inexpensive weight loss plan should either be free or provided at a minimal cost. In addition to monetary outlay, there should be no special, expensive food required, but rather the recommended food should be readily available at most local grocery stores. Be wary of any plan that offers a free trial period, and then requires you to pay fees or purchase questionable dietary supplements.

Finding a Plan

Check with your local community center, workplace or hospital concerning the availability of free or low-cost weight loss plans that are led by trained individuals. These programs often offer a group support component, which can help you as you learn new eating habits. In addition to healthy eating habits, find a weight loss plan that recommends physical activity in conjunction with caloric reduction. A 2007 study published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" found that the participants who started and continued physical exercise while losing weight had less incidence of weight regain. If belonging to an Internet weight loss site appeals to you, look for an Internet program that offers weight-loss plans based on the recommendations of a doctor or nutritionist.

Using a Plan

Assuming the inexpensive plan you choose is based on healthy eating and exercise recommendations, dedicating yourself to following your chosen plan is the next step. If joining a local group or following a diet from a book, gather any materials you need to begin. You may need to stock up on fresh fruits, vegetables and whole-grain breads. If just beginning an exercise plan, make certain you have the proper shoes and safety equipment. Weigh yourself on the recommended plan schedule, and make adjustments in your eating as recommended by your plan leader.

Considerations

Using an inexpensive weight-loss plan can result in weight-loss success if you learn to change your lifestyle. Use the resources of your plan, either through Internet support, meetings with your leader or group interactions, to address emotional or mindless eating habits. MayoClinic.com indicates that emotional eating can sabotage even the best of intentions when it comes to weight loss. If you struggle with this area, consider seeking professional help, possibly using the money you are saving to pay for services.