Dieting is all the rage right now, particularly with the growing problems with obesity that Americans face. Before you start any diet plan, there are a few questions that you need to ask. These questions will help you make informed, wise decisions about your nutrition. First, ask whether or not the diet plan is balanced. Whatever you plan to do to help you cut calories and lose weight, you need to maintain a balanced diet that has enough nutrients for a healthy life. If one food group, such as carbohydrates, is cut out, are the nutrients that come with those foods added in somewhere else? Next, ask whether or not the diet is practical. Can you eat out if you are not home at dinnertime? Do you have to have access to a microwave or refrigerator at all times? Some diet plans work well for you when you are at home, but they do not work when you start heading out into your normal life. Another question you need to consider is what your goals are for the diet plan. Do you need to lose weight quickly for an event, or are you looking for long-term success? Some diet plans allow for quick weight loss at the

beginning, while others are more tailored to those looking for lifelong dietary changes. You also might ask what your doctor might think of the weight loss plan. Plans that promise more than one or two pounds of weight loss per week can be dangerous. Make sure that the plan is safe, and don’t be afraid to ask your doctor about it at your next checkup. Ask whether or not the plan will require you to completely give up a food that you love. Look for something that is flexible enough to allow you an occasional treat of those items that you cannot live without. An occasional bowl of ice cream will not kill you, provided you eat it in moderation, so look for a diet that is a tiny bit flexible. Remember, your ultimate goal is to find a diet that you can use for the rest of your life. Once you lose the weight, you will need to learn how to keep it off. Choose a plan that fits your lifestyle but is still effective. Make sure it is safe as well. Soon you will find yourself on the path to a slimmer, healthier you!

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Questions About Dieting