Obesity, being more than 20 percent overweight, is a significant health problem in this country. In fact, more Americans are obese than at any other time in our history. Getting down to your ideal weight is a worthy goal, but how you do it is just as important. Quick weight loss, without real change in eating habits and exercise, will not last. It is actually more unhealthy to yo-yo, meaning gain, lose, and regain, than it is to remain overweight. In addition, each time the body yo-yos, muscle is lost and fat is gained. This makes it even harder to lose weight the next time. Our desire for quick and painless weight loss has led to many unhealthy diets marketed by the weight loss industry.

To evaluate a weight loss diet, ask the following:
* Does the diet promise weight loss of more than two pounds per week?
* Does the diet give testimonials from people who have used the program and had unbelievable success?
* Does the diet advise you to eat an excess of any one particular food or nutrient (for example, grapefruit or protein) ?
* Does the person who developed the diet or product hold a questionable credential or degree from an unknown educational institution?
* Are you expected to consume less than 1200 calories each day?

If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, the diet is probably NOT safe or effective.

Remember:
* variety and moderation,
* consistent exercise, and
* gradual changes in eating behaviors,

are central to any successful and healthful weight loss plan. A weight loss of one to two pounds per week is best. Before swallowing the latest weight loss claims on the news stand or talk show, ask yourself the above questions. If you are serious about sliming down for life, talk to your healthcare provider or registered dietitian for help.

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