The Truth About Diets And Weight Loss

If you haven't tried fad diets over the years, there is still a good chance you have heard about them. You have probably wondered if these diets work. After all, it sure seems that people have success with them. The truth is some of them do work - for a while. Several of these diets have other health complications. Regardless of what you have been led to believe, the idea that you can eliminate a whole group of foods is unhealthy.

How can eight slices of bacon be better for any body than a slice of whole-wheat bread? Sounds a bit absurd, doesn't it? Yet, when shown apparent evidence of massive weight loss, common sense often is replaced with the desire to join the latest "foolproof" fad diet.

Enough of the sermon! There are proven methods of weight loss. That is what this article will look at. The lack of excitement and popularity is made up for by the effectiveness of these techniques.

1. Calories count.

The one sure way to lose weight is to take in fewer calories than you expend. One pound is equal to about 3500 calories. This means for every 3500 calories you burn above and beyond what you take in, you will lose one pound. You can come up with this difference either by taking in fewer calories, or expending more through exercise. The best recommendation is to balance the two.

2. Food matters.

It is nice to think that avoiding, or some secret combination of, certain foods will make it easier to lose weight. Fad diets prey upon this very idea. There is some truth to this, but only to the extent that healthy foods are a better choice. As obvious as that is, fad diets cloud the issue.

Eat whole, nutritious foods. Avoid saturated fats, sugar, and refined foods. And, as mentioned, calories count. So choosing lower calorie foods will help the weight come off faster.

3. You got to move.

Exercise seems like hard work to those who prefer to sit down in front of the television. You can find ways to get moving that you enjoy. Walking is easy, but some find it boring. Taking the stairs, not taking the car if possible, doing your own yard work, playing with your kids or pets, swimming, or even throwing a Frisbee around all are forms of exercise.

The key is to get yourself moving. It does not have to be a chore, but it does have to become a habit. Find a way to get moving that you enjoy.

Admittedly, these tips have been around for a long time, but there is a reason - they are effective. Any weight loss plan that incorporates these three things is bound to succeed. There is also the benefit to your overall health, not just your waistline. The next time you hear about (or think about trying) the newest and hottest diet, read these tips again. You will likely save some money and lose weight the right way in the process.

Michael Oksa is the co-author of "121 Tips To Help You Lose Weight And Keep It Off". He believes in helping people achieve their weight loss goals and provides these tips free of charge at http://www.how-to-diet.net