Healthy Weight Loss

Losing weight might seem like a daunting task, but here are some tips from the American Medical Association (AMA) to get you started:

• Keep track of what you eat. If you want to lose weight, you need to eat fewer calories than the amount of energy you put out through activities.

• Get regular exercise. The AMA and other experts recommend at least 30 minutes of brisk walking or its equivalent each day.

• Lose weight slowly, no more than a pound a week is best. If you are overweight, losing 5 to 10 percent of your weight can improve your health.

• Be sure to check with your doctor before beginning a new exercise program or a diet plan.