A Responsible and Safe Weight-loss Program
If your health care provider tells you that you should lose weight and you want to find a weight-loss program to help you, look for one that is based on regular physical activity and an eating plan that is balanced, healthy, and easy to follow. Weight-loss programs should encourage healthy behaviors that help you lose weight and that you can stick with every day.

Safe and effective weight-loss programs should include:
Healthy eating plans that reduce calories but do not forbid specific foods or food groups.
Tips to increase moderate-intensity physical activity.
Tips on healthy habits that also keep your cultural needs in mind, such as lower-fat versions of your favorite foods.
Slow and steady weight loss. Depending on your starting weight, experts recommend losing weight at a rate of 1/2 to 2 pounds per week. Weight loss may be faster at the start of a program.
A plan to keep the weight off after you have lost it.