Rapid weight loss is essentially a loss in weight over the standard 1 to 2 pounds per week. For most people, this isn't a recommended approach to losing those excess pounds. It isn't until your body mass index places you at a level of obesity, according to the Cleveland Clinic, that this method should be considered to lose weight (Reference 2).
Step 1
Talk to your doctor about your planned rapid weight shedding plan. Rapid weight loss programs should only be utilized under the supervision of a trained medical professional, according to the Mayo Clinic, so you'll need to discuss your options with a doctor to ensure proper nutrition and avoid serious complications of low-caloric intake (Reference 1).
Step 2
Reduce your caloric intake to the recommended amount. While most rapid weight loss programs limit your caloric intake to 800 calories or less, your doctor and dietitian will most likely recommend a specific amount of calories each day (Reference 2). This caloric intake is often based on your weight, body mass index, height, age and health. Your doctor may also recommend supplementing your diet with a medically-certified meal replacement program.
Step 3
Start walking, biking or swimming each day to support your weight loss goals. If you're planning on taking part in a rapid weight loss program, doctors often recommend enlisting the help of a personal trainer. Trainers can establish the appropriate exercise regimen for your weight, health and level of fitness.
Step 4
Consider talking to a behavioral therapist. As you work with your weight loss staff, you can increase the potential for success by taking a deeper look at your weight gain, according to the Cleveland Clinic (Reference 2). You're often able to determine reasons behind the excess weight, define triggers that cause you to overeat and modify behaviors around this information. Not only can this help you to lose the weight, but it may also go a long way to keeping the weight off.
Step 5
Maintain your regularly scheduled appointments, be it with your doctor, dietitian, personal trainer or therapist. To be truly successful in your weight loss, you need to be committed to your goal. And one of the keys to this commitment is attending all doctors' appointments, therapy sessions and physical workouts.
Tips and Warnings
- Make sure to put in place strategies and techniques to manage your weight once you've achieved your weight loss goal, which includes modifying your caloric intake so it's well-balanced and low in saturated fat, cholesterol and animal products while rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. It should also include some level of daily fitness.
- Don't try to lose more than 1 to 2 pounds a week without the supervision of trained medical professional.
Things You'll Need
- Doctor
- Dietitian
- Personal trainer
- Behavioral therapist
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