People often ask me what I think are the best ways to lose weight.  As an exercise professional, of course I know that exercise is a critical component.  Diet however is a MAJOR determinant of whether you will lose weight or not.  I love teaching pilates because it is an exercise that makes you feel good, it is invigorating!   If you are injured, Pilates will get you well again so that you can do the other things that you really enjoy.  I digress, back to my point of diets.  There are several really good programs out there that "work".   Some are better at long term weight loss, some are quick loss, some are detox in nature.  

I've been asked the question enough that I wanted to put out my favorite recommendation for health and wellness and as a by-product weight loss.  I read this book for the first time about 2 years ago.   I tried the program, I loved it and I felt great and I looked great and made it to my goal weight.  My favorite thing about the book is that is is a book about Healthy Eating as the number one goal.  Joel Fuhrman's calculation is so simple, whenever you eat, you can easily decided if you are eating for health, or for one of the other millions or reason we eat. 

HEALTH = NUTRIENTS/CALORIES

While I love this book, be prepared that it can be difficult and best to enter into with a friend.  It is difficult because it goes against convention and you might need the support of another to work the plan.  You are never hungry, the work comes in trying to eat enough of the right foods.    Having a friend to check in with ensures that you eat enough food.   The reason that I read the book initially was a coworker of mine (who had been vegetarian for years) started looking more alive, having a ton of energy and she was so enthused about the book and she looked better everyday.  I'd see her eating her lunch, a salad in a HUGE bowl.  When we were eating cake, she would say no with a smile and pull out an orange.  It was baffling!   As time went on, I asked her about how she does it.. such discipline, saying no to cake.... she said that she feels so good that she doesn't want to change that.   For her its just about feeling good - her best!

So, if you are looking to lose weight and most importantly RESTORE HEALTH, try his 6 week plan.  You'll know for sure that you are giving yourself your best shot at health.... and if you are not ready to go full force - get as many fruits, beans and vegetables into your body on a daily basis!