Choosing the right weight loss program can be difficult. New programs continue to attractive consumers with claims to promote "quick" weight loss with little effort. Unfortunately, many diet programs lack the necessary data to support their claims of lasting weight loss. Most commercial weight loss programs only provide a short term answer to the problem of being overweight.

Many people become quickly dissatisfied with the restrictive diets that many commercial diet programs offer. Some of these programs provide very low calorie diets (1000 calories per day) and require weigh-ins. Others require clients to purchase their pre-packaged low-fat meals which can be very expensive. Pre-packaged meals are appealing because the difficult choice about what to eat is avoided. However, in the long-run, maintaining weight loss may be difficult because meal planning skills for a long-lasting change weren't taught.

Other diets such as liquid meal replacement plans may be harmful because over time they can cause nutritional deficiencies. Also, due to the unrealistic expectations associated with these products, consumers are often left with only a sense of guilt and failure. It is difficult to stick with these programs and lose weight. Studies show that fad diets usually result in regaining of weight lost. In many cases, more weight than was originally lost. Studies have also shown that exercise should be a necessary part of any weight loss program and is critical in keeping weight off.

To evaluate whether a commercial diet program offers a safe and healthy way to lose weight, ask the following questions:
* Does the diet exclude any of the major food groups?
* Does the diet exclude any certain foods that may be "bad"?
* Is a "quick fix" promised versus a gradual weight loss?
* Is a diet of less than 1200 calories per day recommended?
* Does the program exclude behavior modification and exercise components?

If the answer is yes to any of the above questions, then the diet program probably is NOT a healthy choice. Remember, gradual changes in eating behaviors include:
* the intake of a variety of foods, and
* daily exercise.

These steps will result in a slow weight loss of one to two pounds per week. Ask for advise from your healthcare provider before choosing a commercial weight loss program.

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