How to Lose a Lot of Weight Rapidly

Many of us suddenly find ourselves facing a school reunion, a corporate party or an event that prompts us to drop those five to 10 extra pounds quickly. Several methods can achieve relatively quick weight loss, but for long-term success and safe results, individuals should know that starving yourself is not the answer to fast weight loss, but quite the opposite. Starving encourages the body to hang onto every pound and calorie for self preservation. For fast and safe weight loss, follow a few basic steps for success.

Step 1

Drink lots of water to start any weight loss program. Whether you need to lose five pounds in a week or 20 pounds in two months, drink at least 64 ounces of water a day, but more if you can. Shoot for about a gallon of water a day, or 128 ounces, which will really help your body flush out excess wastes and toxins and promote quick weight loss. Be prepared to spend a lot of time rushing to the bathroom the first couple of days, but rest assured, your body will get used to the extra hydration. Try not to drink more than a gallon to a gallon and a half of water a day so as not to stress the kidneys.

Step 2

Exercise for at least one hour a day, or break it up into smaller exercise sessions throughout the day. The harder you exercise, the faster your body will burn calories and increase metabolism (which defines the rate at which your body burns calories for fuel or energy). The best exercises for losing weight fast are aerobic, or cardiovascular, exercise combined with weight lifting exercises. You don't have to lift weights in a gym, but do use dumbbells to help build lean muscle mass, which burns calories more efficiently than fat.

Step 3

Cut calorie intake to ensure you're burning more calories every day than you consume. Try to average about 1,200 calories a day minimum while seeking to achieve fast weight loss. If you consume fewer, your body may think it's starving, and your metabolism will slow and hang onto every ounce to ensure survival. You want your body to burn fat, not muscle, so make sure you get enough veggies and fruits. Stay away from refined sugars and flours such as white bread, pastries and fast foods and eat lean meats such as chicken or fish.

References

Article reviewed by OmahaTyppo Last updated on: Nov 5, 2009

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