You've heard it before, but you really do need to see your health care professional before you significantly change your diet and/or activity level. If you have not had a physical recently, elect to have one before you begin your weight loss regime. There may be age/health concerns or medical conditions found that will need to be taken into consideration as you enter your weight loss journey.

No matter what, don't be afraid to take that next step! Some people find discussing their eating issues, obesity, their emotions regarding their weight, etc., to be embarassing. Don't be ashamed! Your health professional is there to help you be in the best health you can be. Almost everyone has struggled with their weight at one point or another -- you are not alone!

Your physician can help you with the physical aspects of weight loss, but if you find you are struggling with overwhelming emotional issues and/or compulsive behavior, you may wish to seek out a therapist, or, you may find a support group like Overeaters Anonymous to be helpful.

Once you have your doctor's blessing, then it is time to move on to the next steps: to find the eating plan you can stick with, to begin incorporating activity into your life, and to overcome barriers like binge eating and emotional triggers. These are all topics you will find covered at this site. You may also find our message board to be very helpful; it's a great place to ask questions and give and receive support and motivation.

Can you recommend a particular diet?
No, I do not have any one diet I recommend over others. I firmly believe that you have to find what is right for you and I could say the diet I think is best until I'm blue in the face... doesn't mean it's the best for you! I encourage you to read up on all the different diets which you will find links to on this site, then, (again, with your doctor's approval) try the one that sounds best for you. You may find success, you may need to try another one... the important thing is you're trying. The best plan for you to follow is one you can live on permanently... not one that provides a "quick fix". Once you find what works best for you, you'll know.

Do you recommend supplements?
I do not personally recommend any dietary supplements, OTC products or prescription weight loss aids or products. I am convinced that weight loss needs to happen naturally to be effective and permanent -- it comes down to you and the choices you make. Sorry, folks -- I firmly believe that there is no magic pill that brings safe, effective weight management. If there were such pill, believe you me, I'd have a lifetime supply on tap. ;-)

I haven't exercised before. What should I do?
As long as your current state of health permits it (I know it sounds like a broken record, but check with your doc!) the best exercise I can suggest is walking. Do it anywhere, for as little as you like or as much as you like. Build up from five minutes or progress from one block to two blocks. While walking may almost seem "too easy" it really doe work and it is something you are more likely to stick with rather than the latest aerobics routine or contraption off of t.v.! Visit the great About walking site at http://walking.about.com for more info.

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