This depends on how little you want to eat and how much you want to move. You have all seen the weight loss shows putting people through the rigors so they will walk away about half the size they were when started. Unfortunately for most of those contestants, their skinny jeans turned into fat pants with elastic bands once the taping stopped. Why? Because they have done nothing to deal with fitting weight loss and maintenance into their real, daily lives. Generally a 1- 2 lb loss per week (more if you have a lot of weight to lose) creates a realistic lifestyle that, for most people, is more sustainable. If you cannot maintain the severity of the lifestyle necessary to promote rapid weight loss, then you most likely will not maintain the weight loss. Let’s just cover some facts as well, it took you a long time to gain this weight and it will take you a long time to get the weight off. Sorry – but maybe next time before that cheeseburger passes your lips – you will think about what it will look like on your hips. The truth is if you set realistic goals for yourself and track your progress along the way, you will learn to make being healthy a part of your real life and you can easily pull on your skinny jeans without having to hold your breath and scream for assistance getting your zipper up.
The weight you lose in a week depends on a number of food and physical activity variables.
Losing 1-2 pounds per week is the general recommendation for safe and sustainable weight loss. People with more weight to lose may see more weight come off when they begin a weight loss program while those with very little to lose may see less. While 1-2 pounds per week may take a bit longer, the slow and steady method tends to help keep the weight off long term.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.