If you stick to just about any weight loss diet, you will lose weight. The lack of knowledge on how to correctly lose weight and burn fat is one of the main reasons most people are not successful in keeping the weight off long-term, and also why people spend billions of dollars a year on useless weight loss products and programs.

Most people start a diet because they are upset with their physical appearance and the way they feel. Fad diets are extremely popular because you can lose weight in a short period of time. The problem with most fad diets is the vast majority of pounds you shed are lean body mass (muscles and internal organs) and water weight. Plus, most people only stick with a fad diet for a short period of time and quickly fall back to their old bad habits.

If you want to decrease your body fat percentage and keep the excess weight off for good, you don't need a fad diet, you need a lifestyle change. Consistently eating a healthy diet combined with regular strength training and cardiovascular exercise allows you to burn excess body fat while retaining your lean body tissue and maintain your goal weight.

Over the years, I have heard every excuse imaginable why someone can't eat healthy or exercise regularly. In my opinion, there is no such thing as a good excuse why you can not improve your health, appearance, and quality of life. Believe it or not, it's easier than you think.

You can get rapid results with only having to dedicate 3 hours a week to exercise. You can easily add three extra hours to your week by getting up 30 minutes earlier, or staying up 30 minutes later. You don't need to buy an expensive health club membership or invest thousands of dollars in exercise equipment. All you need is a television, VCR and a body shaping videotape. There are literally hundreds to choose from ranging from beginners to advanced fitness levels.

Pre-prepare healthy meals by cooking in bulk and refrigerating your meals. Make a large salad. Broil a few packages of chicken breasts. Buy enough fruit for the entire week. (3 servings per day) This is perfect for people who are on the run and constantly eating fast food for convenience. It's quick, easy and takes very little preparation time. Throw your food for the day in a bag and you're off! You may need to invest in some Tupperware.

In conclusion, fad diets are not the answer for losing weight and keeping it off. Most of the pounds you drop are from water loss and losing lean body mass - not burning fat. If you want to decrease your body fat percentage, lose weight and keep it off, you have to change your lifestyle, eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly.

Dr. Osgoodby was a finalist in the "EAS Body for Life" Contest.

Share your thoughts about this article with the editor: Click Here

If you liked this article why not sign up for our free money-saving email alerts? Your bonus? 209 ways to save on groceries.

Follow The Dollar Stretcher on Twitter.

I Would like to:

• Read other articles on this topic
  
• See what else is in this issue
  
• Subscribe to "The Dollar Stretcher" free weekly email newsletter
  
• visit the Problem Solving Center
  
• visit the Reference Library
  
• browse the 'author' index
  
• search 'by date' index
  
• check out Past Issues of Newsletter
  
• go see 'What's New'
  
• "Can You Help This Reader?"
  
• drop by 'Tips, Quips & Quotes'
  
• send email to the Editor of "The Dollar Stretcher"