The desire to lose weight is often propelled by a number of personal reasons and fuelled by a sense of urgency. People lose weight because they want to feel healthier, look better or have more energy. And they want these things right away. For this reason, many of them undertake weight loss programs with reckless abandon, pushing themselves long and hard to achieve that desired weight loss. As a result, they do lose weight but not in enough quantities to satisfy their sense of urgency. They then get discouraged and often give up their weight loss programs altogether.

A few people do lose weight drastically, in quantities approaching 10% to 30% of their total weight, sometimes even more. They do so through intense diligence to their program, often surpassing the recommended norms set by health instructors. They are proud of their efforts and results but, the truth is, such drastic weight loss is not healthy and can do more damage to the body than good.

The key to an effective weight loss program is to set realistic goals. Don't aim to lose too much weight in a short period of time. Chances are, as the above example shows, you'll miss your goal and end up discouraged. Health experts recommend a weight loss program that sheds two pounds per week, especially for those who are significantly overweight. , a weight loss of fact, losing even five to 10 percent of your weight is the kind of goal that can help improve your health.

Realistic goals and expectations are the foundation of a successful weight loss or weight management system. Realistic goals are more achievable and, once achieved, chances are good that you will more likely be able to maintain your weight.

Aside from a physical fitness regimen, there are other factors that affect what you weight, and you must consider these as well when assessing the results of your weight loss program. These include how much and what kinds of food you eat, whether your lifestyle includes regular physical activity, whether you use food to respond to stress and other situations in your life, your physiologic and genetic make-up and your age and health status.