I was shocked to learn that recent statistics reveal that almost 75% of Americans are overweight. Almost 40% of them are obese or morbidly obese. Now more than ever, obesity is beginning in our youth, sometimes as young as 1 or 2.

Anyone who has had the desire to lose weight and become healthier knows that the huge amount of weight loss methods and diets available can be overwhelming. The hardest part is finding where to start. Whether it is low carb or low fat, there are many ways to decide which weight loss plan is best suited for you.

Before you even begin your diet and weight loss plan, you need to get a realistic goal in mind, or better in paper. Genetics can determine a body’s shape and natural build just as it does your eyes and hair. If you are tall with large hips and shoulders, you cannot expect to lose weight and be a petite size 2. Instead, you should set your goals at a comfortable, healthy weight.

So first you need to determine why you are overweight. There are a few common reasons to blame for your bulging belly. The most common is a slow metabolism, whatever the reason may be that it is slow. Maybe you don’t eat enough? Maybe you don’t have any physical activity?

Many Americans find themselves overeating when times get rough or stressful. Others find hormonal imbalances cause them to be overweight. Some reasons to ones obesity that is more common are simply eating portions that are too large.

Some easy tips that help promote weight loss for a dieter is to drink plenty of distilled, bottled, or filtered water, especially first thing in the morning. Also, eat a big breakfast. This helps jump start your metabolism, and controls your appetite until lunch, preventing you from overeating.

Many suggest you don’t eat after 7 pm. This is because you are unlikely to burn any extra calories consumed that late at night. If you must, eat something healthy.

Some health care professionals recommend you do a colon cleanse. This type of cleansing flushes out the digestive system. Digestive systems have common issues in overweight people. You can check your local health food store.

In addition to your diet and exercise regime, you can include a helpful diet pill. One that is highly recommended is Hoodia. If you come in contact with any products containing ephedra run the other way. Ephedra is directly linked to heart attack and death. It is now banned by the U.S. government.