Lose Weight Fast

Although the best weight loss strategy might be “slow and steady”, there are times you need to lose weight fast. For example, if you are just starting out on a weight loss program, it can be motivating to start out strong with rapid weight loss. Sometimes there is a special occasion coming up. Perhaps your high school reunion is just around the corner, and you’ve put on a few pounds. Maybe your family reunion is coming up. Perhaps you are going to be married, and you want to look your very best on that special day. In these cases, a quick weight loss approach might be the best tactic.

One of the best things you can do to lose weight fast is to increase your level of activity. If you are not on an exercise program, you’ll want to clear this with your doctor first. Then, start with an hour of brisk walking a day. This is safe, do-able, and you will burn calories and ramp up your metabolism. Next, drink plenty of water. Aim for eight glasses per day. Next, you’ll want to cut out refined carbohydrates for the next few weeks. These are not only extra calories, but they also slow down that calorie burn. (Although there are no “bad foods”, postpone them until after your quick weight loss.) Avoid excess sodium as well for the next few weeks. Then ramp up the protein! No matter what diet plan you choose, protein will keep you full and help you burn fat. Choose lean meats and vegetarian sources as well such as soy powder and eggs. You will need to choose either a simple calorie-counting plan, or a formal plan such as Atkins, South Beach, or Weight-Watchers. Whatever you choose, if you are getting a good portion of your calories from protein, nixing the refined carbohydrates, exercising for an hour a day, and keeping either your calories (or your food points or your portions) very reduced but within reason, you are sure to lose weight fast.