Weight loss experts tell us that natural, healthy weight loss occurs at the rate of 2 to 2-1/2 pounds per week. This is the optimal rate in terms of health and nutrition. But there are times when a more rapid weight loss method is needed and there are several ways of achieving this.

One way is to take appetite suppresants and “Fat Burning” supplements. But these should not be taken for an extended period of time. Luckily, there are a few natural, and healthier, ways to bring about the same result. One of these methods could be adopted as a “lifestyle change”, but most are still only for emergency use.

The best way to lose weight is to adopt a life-long change in the way that you eat. This is done through an overall improvement in nutritional habits in order to feel better, have more energy, and ward off dietary diseases. The weight loss in this case is secondary, so it doesn’t have to be super-fast. If this is what you are looking for, there is an excellent e-book by Tom Venuto, “Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle“, that will put you on course for a healthy, feel-good life.

But for those times when you need rapid weight loss, there is calorie shifting. The leading provider of this method is “Fat Loss 4 Idiots“. This is a very easy plan to follow, as it doesn’t require any calorie-counting or calculations. Daily menus are provided and all you have to do is make a grocery list and prepare the meals. Eat until you are satisfied, but not overstuffed. Exercise is minimized in this system, but a couple of long walks each day is recommended. The menus are followed for 11 days, then you have 3 days off to eat anything you want. Just stick to the “don’t stuff yourself” rule. This plan is not intended for a lifestyle change, but can be used for several months at a time. I will give you a couple of tips further on how to ensure that you get good nutritional balance.

Another rapid weight loss method is designed for people who are exercising regularly in the gym. This method actually cuts your exercise sessions in half, yet increases your weight loss rate. This method was developed by Rob Poulos and is called “Fat Burning Furnace“.  You can get a 21-day Trial of this system for just $4.95 by going to the Order Page and clicking on the red X on the top right of the page as if to close it. This will bring up a Pop-up that leads to the Trial Offer.

Back to calorie shifting, I have a few suggestions gained through experience. On the “vegetable and fruit” days, you may find yourself in need of protein. You can prevent this by combining certain veggies in the same meal. If you eat butterbeans and corn together, you will get a higher quality protein than with just one of them. Other good combos are red or white beans and rice, green beans and potatoes, etc.

In summary, the healthiest way to lose weight and improve your general health and well-being is still the conventional diet and excercise formula. But for those times when you need rapid weight loss, the calorie shifting diet plan will speed things up for you.