If you want to lose weight, begin by shaving 500 calories a day via diet and exercise. That should help you lose about a pound a week. Keep in mind that one pound of fat - not muscle or water weight -- is equal to 3,500 calories.

Medically Reviewed July 3, 2007.

SOURCES: Elizabeth Ward, MS, RD, author, The Pocket Idiot's Guide to the New Food Pyramids. Felicia Stoler, MS, RD, host, TLC's Honey, We're Killing the Kids.

©2007 WebMD Inc. All rights reserved.