When deciding the best way to lose weight, many people turn to weight loss plans. According to medicinenet.com, Americans spend $30 billion every year on weight loss plans. New plans seem to pop up each year trying to get a piece of that $30 billion pie. With so many plans to choose from it can be difficult to sift through all the infomercials and ads to locate the plan that best suits you.
Step 1
Write a list of all the weight loss plans that interest you. Include plans that are exclusively online, plans offered in your city and plans that are from books. Even plans that you have tried in the past should be included on the list. Leave room between each plan name in order to add more information.
Step 2
Write down the cost of each plan. Include the cost of pre-packaged meals, membership fees, the cost of any necessary books, and even the estimated cost to travel to meetings if they are part of the plan. Add up all the fees, dues, etc. Place the estimated cost next to each plan name.
Step 3
Determine which plans have a support network. According to "The Eating Well Diet Book," cultivating a network of support is important for weight loss success. Plans with a network of support should be at the top of your list.
Step 4
Determine if the weight loss plan is based on sound nutrition practices. Compare your chosen diet program to the food guide pyramid. If the weight loss plan omits certain food groups, requires awkward food combinations or certain supplements, it should be eliminated.
Step 5
Read the success stories. Plans that have helped people like you achieve lasting weight loss should be given consideration.
Tips and Warnings
- Choose programs supported by dieticians, exercise physiologists and physicians. Choose plans that encourage regular physical activity. Select a weight loss plan that includes a variety of foods. Having a network of support can be the difference between losing weight and keeping it off or not reaching your weight loss goals at all.
- Stay away from weight loss plans that aren't based on sound nutrition. Avoid weight loss programs that don't offer consultations or are only sold over the Internet. If weight loss plans promise dramatic and fast weight loss, you may want to stay clear. Healthy weight loss is realistic and may take time to accomplish.
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