By - BLACK PRESS

According to Statistics Canada, half of all Canadians are overweight or obese. Of those, about two-thirds are trying to lose weight.

Taking the weight off (and keeping it off) can be a daunting task and with this difficulty, many people are turning to professional weight-loss programs for help.

But with an overwhelming number of diet choices on the market, the question remains: which one is right for you?

What qualities should I look for in a reliable weight loss program?

Ensure it is safe

Make sure you follow a diet that is well-balanced and not severely low in calories.

This is especially important for long-term weight-loss success.

Although a program should be low-cal, it should not restrict vitamin and mineral intake.

A program that follows Canada?s Food Guide is an excellent choice to ensure that you are still meeting your nutritional requirements.

If supplements are involved, make sure they are being properly regulated. Health Canada?s Natural Health Products Directorate ensures that Canadians have ready access to natural health products that are safe, effective and of high quality.

Properly regulated products should have the NHPD log on the label. It promises realistic results.

A program should not promote losing more than about two pounds a week on a consistent basis.

If you continually lose more than this your body may compensate by slowing the rate at which it burns calories, which will result in slower and more difficult to maintain weight loss. Losing the two pounds per week will ensure that the weight loss will be both healthy and sustainable.

Maintenance is a must

A good weight loss program will include a plan for long-term weight control.

According to Statistics Canada, 90 per cent of dieters will regain all of the weight they lose within one year if they don?t follow some kind of maintenance protocol.

The program you follow should be teaching healthy food choices as well as having a system in place to monitor your weight even after you lose it.

Qualified support staff

Weight loss can be difficult and having someone to keep you on track and able to troubleshoot concerns is a necessity.

It?s also an asset to have someone to provide support and motivation while losing weight (especially if it is over a long period of time).

Knowing you have the staff with you every step of the way will give you the help you need to reach your goals.

While losing weight can be tough, there is a program out there for everyone.

Keep these tips in mind and look for the long-term approach.

Dieting is a stressful waste of effort if you don?t maintain your weight. Remember, permanent, effective weight loss is a way of life, not just a two-week plan.

Source: Prince George Free Press

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