The following discussion is typical doctor/patient discussion.
Doctor: Your BMI is moderately high and your "bad cholesterol" is elevated. Rather than going on medication right away, I recommend that you first try to lose 30-35 pounds. May I suggest a low calorie, low saturated fat diet, which will allow you to lose 2-5 pounds a month and hopefully normalize your cholesterol profile?
Patient: I think I can do this on my own; all I really need to do is exercise a little bit. In fact, I just joined the gym. Check me again in a few months and we'll take it from there.
Doctor: Exercise is good, but may not be enough to achieve the necessary goal.
But, he reluctantly agrees with the patient. What's wrong with this picture?
In order to lose weight you have to "give up calories" by either decreasing your daily calorie consumption or increasing your daily calorie expenditure, or both.
In order to lose one pound of fat you have to "give up" 3500 calories. To lose a pound a week give up 500 calories a day; double that if you want to lose two ponds a week.
What's the more effective way of getting started and losing weight?
Studies have shown conclusively that the most effective way to lose weight is mainly by calorie restriction. Exercise helps, and is much more useful in helping you keep your weight down.
You may be able to cut calories down on your own. Eat a Greek salad instead of a roast beef sandwich for lunch, and you already save 300 calories. A low calorie cereal/milk instead of a muffin can save you another 150 calories, and the day only began...
Losing 500 calories a day exercise will takes the typical person a 5 mile walk. Losing two pounds a week with exercise alone may require a daily 10 nile walk.
Our weight loss programs include:
Ordinary food, low calorie, portion control diets
Meal replacement diets for rapid weight loss: Medifast and HMR
Use of appetite suppressants where indicated
All programs include exercise guidance.
