Men and women today want to look and feel their best. The obesity epidemic facing America has led many people to seek quick weight loss in diet fads and products. But, are they healthy?

There’s no magic to how to lose weight. The answer is clear: exercise and limit the calories you consume. Excessive calories, no matter what the source (fat, protein, carbohydrates or sugar), will cause weight gain. To successfully lose weight and keep it off, you must watch your portions, follow the food pyramid or U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans and increase your activity level on a regular basis.

There are many diets and diet products that claim to help you miraculously shed your love handles and slim those hips. Although some of these plans may lead to temporary weight loss, the results usually don’t last and you often end up ballooning back to your previous weight or worse - gaining additional pounds. Why? Many of these plans don’t teach you how to eat nutritionally balanced meals in the appropriate serving (or portion) sizes. Some of the diets put you at greater risk of cardiovascular disease and other conditions. That’s why it’s so important to consult a physician or Registered Dietitian (RD) before beginning any diet regimen.