Weight loss Archive

People on a weight-loss regimen should aim to lose 1 to 2 pounds per week, which translates into eating 500 to 750 fewer calories each day than they expend. Losing weight faster often causes excess muscle loss and lowers metabolism, making it harder to burn fat.

A body fat percentage reading can mean very different things depending on your sex, activity level, and waist size. See how to judge your own number.

Despite being on your feet all day, the scale hasn't budged. Learn what might be canceling out your extra activity.

Belly fat that won't budge can be more than a cosmetic concern. Learn how to spot risky fat around your waist and key habits to shrink it.

Some people lose weight quickly on fewer calories while others barely budge. Learn how differences in energy use might be working against you.

Two proven therapies for treating obesity - GLP-1 drugs and bariatric surgery - can help people lose substantial amounts of weight. The approaches differ in their effectiveness, durability, side effects, cost, and insurance coverage.

Metabolism-how your body turns food into energy-is strongly influenced by genes, but lifestyle still matters. Choosing nourishing foods, avoiding extreme diets, and building muscle through regular exercise can modestly boost calorie burning and support weight loss.

A 2025 study found that increased physical activity and adherence to a Mediterranean diet each promoted a healthy weight and less build-up of harmful (visceral) body fat. Combining exercise plus a high-quality diet had the greatest benefit.

A 2025 study suggests that the nature of ultra-processed foods, not the consumption of extra calories from these foods, is what contributes to their association with excess weight gain and a greater risk for obesity.

A 2025 study suggested that people can lose more weight by eating minimally processed foods rather than ultra-processed versions, even those typically considered healthy.