Weight reduction programmes are dime a dozen. One should consult a height to weight chart (or better still, a qualified doc) to get an idea of the ideal weight. Then work towards it. Weight loss could be by way of inches or pounds. Both matter. And in a good weight loss program, both would happen. But focus more on inches than pounds. The best way to lose weight is to combine excercise with a sensible diet. And one exercise a person can do anywhere is brisk walking.
All one needs to invest in are a good pair of shoes and some comfortable track suits. Again, teh form of exercise would depend on health issues. However, if motivational levels are low, or if a walking track is not easily accessible, I would recommend joining a gym. A good gym would have state-of-the-art equipment and trained instructors. A program that combines weight training and cardio-vascular exercises would offer maximum long term benefit. For those of you who would like to shake a leg and exercise, there is always the aerobic studio. If you have a knee problem or a bad back, jogging or lifting weights may only aggravate the problem. Swimming might be more suitable. In any exercise program, start slow and build up so that your muscles gradually strengthen and get used to the regimen. Point to note is that all this will not help much if the diet is not sensible. Having plenty of fibrous foods, cutting back on those aerated drinks in this HOT weather, limiting the portions eaten of carbs and increasing salads and proteins would all go a long way in meeting one’s goal. Point to remember - with weight training, muscles build up even as fat burns.
So wt loss in pounds may not be too obvious. Do not be disheartened. At regular intervals, do a body fat analysis (a quick, inexpensive and painless procedure) to determine the ratio of fat to muscle and the body metabolism rate. If over time, this is increasingly favourable, you are on the right track!! I would not recommend pills as they are could have side effects. Besides, once you stop taking them, your appetite would return to normal. Instead, a life style change - regular exercise and restraint in eating habits, would leave you feeling younger, fitter and happier!!