It is that time of year once a gain for resolutions. Most of which we set for ourselves and never achieve. Losing weight is an aspiration for many Americans. The time and commitment are perhaps the most discouraging part of all. So if your new year’s resolution is to drop a few pounds then here are several ways to help you get started.

Start by choosing a healthy plan. There are numerous weight loss programs out there. Most of which are gimmicks and false advertising aimed at getting you to spend a lot of money. For that reason you may want to start by meeting with a registered Dietician. A Dietician will be able to work with you to design a plan that fits your lifestyle, personality and health condition. Set a reasonable and achievable goal such as one to two pounds a week. That is more rewarding and encouraging to be able to meet your target at weeks end.

Stay away from quick fixes. It is better to lose weight over time then immediately. Remember that the race is not for the swift but for those who can endure. Diets that result in significant and immediate weight loss tend to deprive the body of nutrients necessary to maintain a healthy body. Dieting should not equal starving. Most people bounce right back from that quick fix and having put on more weight then when they started. Examples of dangerous quick fixes include taking laxatives and/or diuretics (water pill). However any diet program that claims to “burn fat while you sleep” or “lose weight without exercising” should sound the alarm for you stay clear. Many Americans have lost tremendous amounts of weight by having gastric bypass surgery. Although this is very successful if you can afford the $10,000 price tag, it is not a magic bullet. You still have to work hard to keep the weight off and stay healthy. There are also prescription diet pills. I tend not to recommend prescription or over the counter pills because they can be harmful, addicting and they do not help you to improve your eating habits or lifestyle. Dieting should be about maintaining good health and nutrition. When you make it a way of life tailored specifically for your lifestyle, taste buds, and personality then losing weight is attainable.

The FDA recently approved an over the counter weight loss product called Alli. It is available in every retail pharmacy and sells for about $40 to $65 depending on the package size. This is the only weight lost product approved by the FDA. You should speak with your Doctor about whether Alli is a good choice for you. At the end of the day I believe in dieting and exercising. Exercising does not have to be boring. Just moving is exercise. Try parking farther away when you go shopping. Start taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Get a dog or cat to force you to take walks. I like to pace around the kitchen while talking on the phone rather then sitting. I prefer to park and walk my children to the school door rather then doing car-drop off. Staying healthy and losing weight is a conscious decision that you make. Research your options, speak with your Doctor and go for it.

Delores Sasu, B.S.,RPH