Weight Loss Programs: 10 Questions You Must Ask First

1. Does this program address motivation and positive thinking? Our minds are the largest part of any action we take; it controls, literally, our actions, but the thinking process overall can determine whether or not a program is successful. If you are thinking positively, then you will have positive results. Negative? You probably won't succeed because you don't believe you can. Saying that "your family has always been overweight" or "it's in our genes" is not going to shrink your waistline. It can have quite the opposite effect.

2. What is my goal? Be realistic with this one! Losing more than 2-3 pounds a week can be very dangerous, and don't listen to any programs that promise that the weight "will just melt off." It doesn't work that. However, you should have some goals in mind. How will losing X amount of weight in the coming year benefit you, make you healthier. What do you want to be able to accomplish by the time the weight's off?

3. What is my ideal weight? This is definitely something to strive for and a huge motivator. Before you start any program, you should determine your ideal weight based on height and bone structure. There are many online indicators that you can use to obtain this number. Keep in mind that losing the weight will not be an overnight process, so you may want to stagger your weight goals: I want to lose X pounds in 6 months until I ultimately meet my weight goal.

4. How will I incorporate healthy eating and physical exercise? Sorry to tell you this, but weight loss requires a life-long shift in eating habits and exercise. Probably the reason you're overweight now is because there's too many unhealthy choices in your life. Eating right and increases exercise not only lets you be healthier while you lose the weight, it will keep the weight from coming back. This doesn't mean you need to cut out everything you love in your diet. If you follow the "everything in moderation" and increase your fruit and vegetable intake while decreasing overall calories, you should begin losing weight, keep it off, and feel healthier. Exercise is also very important to any weight loss program, and very important to your body overall.

5. Should I be treated medically? This is a question for your doctor. If you are critically obese, it might be a necessary option. If you're just trying to lose that holiday pudge then you probably don't need to. Medically doesn't necessarily mean surgery. Your doctor may be able to direct you to safe and effective pills that increase your metabolism and help you lose weight.

6. What does the program consist of? Is there one-on-one counseling involved? Can you ask questions from people who really know? Do you have to follow a strict meal plan, buy food, drugs, or special equipment? Is there instruction for physical exercise, does it follow a plan, and will it help you be more active?

7. How much does it cost? Are there ongoing fees, and does it include everything you need to get started? Is there a follow-up program that keeps the weight off, but costs money? Are medical tests involved or attendance charges?

8. Are there risks associated with this program? You need to know if and how the program can hurt you, and take precautions. Ideally, you should consult a doctor on the best way to lose the weight. You are a unique individual and have special needs that differ from other people.

9. What results do other participants typically achieve? Are other people on the program doing well? Also, you should know if the participants usually keep the weight off after the program or gain it back. Find out what to expect from the program, and not just from their propaganda; ask around.

10. Are people referring this program? Referrals are the best indicator of a program's success. If you can see that a bunch of people are doing well and they are excited to get their friends and family involved too, it's probably a legitimate program that works for a lot of people. If the company is only out to get as many people through it, but people are generally not satisfied, it's something to watch out for.