One growing problem in the U.S. is obesity. Statistics have been released showing that almost 2/3 of all Americans are significantly overweight and nearly half are obese. More attention is being focused on this problem and associated health problems, leading more and more people to seek different methods of achieving rapid weight loss. However, there are several unhealthy ways to achieve fast weight loss. A few methods of rapid weight loss are medically approved.

Visiting one's family doctor is the logical first step toward beginning a safe program of rapid weight loss. He can make suggestions and give information about different procedures and products that are available to help those who are significantly overweight to achieve rapid weight loss with complicating other health issues. He will also recommend specific diet changes and a personalized exercise regimen to begin during this visit.

There are medical procedures and surgeries that can be performed to assist in rapid weight loss for those who are morbidly obese. Liposuction, gastric bypass, and installation of a Lap Band, along with other more drastic surgical alternatives may be considered by those seeking a fast weight loss program. Each procedure has its own unique risks and benefits. Discussing the options with the doctor so he can outline the benefits and risks of each, and a decision can be made about whether the benefits out weigh the risks is crucial.

Certain OTC (over the counter) medications are marketed as a means to help one lose weight. Most of these medications work by suppressing one's appetite. A great deal of care and consideration should go into any choice to use these medications because there is a significant risk of side effects. Appetite suppressant medications are not generally recommended for rapid weight loss.

One common misconception people have about dieting to achieve rapid weight loss is that they must starve themselves. This could not be further from the truth. Starvation diets can actually compound the problem of obesity and do more harm than good. If the body is deprived of food, it starts to produce hormones designed to take every available calorie and convert it to fat for storage until needed. The body will often break down muscle and other tissues for the protein needed to sustain major life systems while storing fat against possible long term need.

Dieting to bring about rapid weight loss often includes making fundamental changes to one's eating habits. Rather than eat 3 large meals each day, eat 4 to 5 smaller meals. Controlling the size of portions is critical to rapid weight loss. It is important to eat enough food to sustain the body without eating extra. Changing what is eaten is more critical than how much. Fresh fruits and vegetables in place of high fat, high calorie foods will help along with reducing the amount of red meat consumed and limiting starches. Done properly, the body will still feel full after eating less calories than before.

Exercise is a critical part of any rapid weight loss program. A doctor can outline a regimen of exercises that will burn more calories than one consumes without putting too much stress on body parts that are already stressed to the limit. As the weight is lost, new exercises can be added to lead to even faster weight loss.