Guide To Choosing The Right Weight Loss Program For You

There are a number of weight loss programs you can join if you don't want to lose weight on your own. Compare and evaluate several programs in your area to see what's right for you before you make any financial commitment. In addition to the questions to ask below consider the distance from your home to the meeting (if any) location and accessability at all times of the year. Also consider getting a friend to join the program with you. Having a close friend join the same program helps to ensure that you will both participate in the meetings and hopefully support each other through all of your goals.

The best way to figure out whether a program is for you is to collect and compare information on different programs in your area. Before you sign up for any group weight-loss program, ask these questions and be sure you're satisfied with the answers:

• How long has the program been around?
• What's the total cost of the program, including and special food, supplements or other products.
• What type of professionals – doctors, dietitians, nurses and counselors – provide their services to customers.
• How often will you attend meetings or counseling sessions?
• Is the program goal-oriented? Will you get help setting positive lifestyle change goals as well as weight loss goals?
• How much weight can you expect to lose each week, and how long will it take you to reach your goal?
• How will your weight loss be monitored?
• If you're over 35, does the program address your age group?
• Does the program include any kind of physical activity recommendations?
• Does the program address any special needs you might have, such as diabetes or a medical problem that prevent physical activity?
• Is a weight maintenance plan included in the cost of the program- If so, what does the program provide?

Beware of any weight loss program that encourages a loss of more than one to two pounds a week after the first week. If you lose more rapidly than that you could end up with serious health problems.

If you find that a “group” program is not for you, then consider one of the many fine online diet programs available. They have the advantage as not being quite so costly as the “go to meeting” types of groups in addition to allowing you to progress at a rate and time that is more convenient for you.