Losing 4 to 8 pounds per month is healthy for most people. This breaks down to about 1 to 2 pounds each week. Research shows that people who lose weight slowly are much more likely to keep it off long-term compared to those who try crash diets.
Why Fast Weight Loss Doesn’t Work
When you drop weight too quickly, your body fights back in ways that hurt you later. Quick weight loss often means you’re losing muscle along with fat. Since muscle helps burn calories all day long, losing it slows down your metabolism. Then when you start eating normally again, the pounds come back even faster than before.
Studies found that over 80% of people who lose weight quickly gain it all back within five years. That’s because extreme diets aren’t something you can stick with forever.
The Right Way to Lose Weight Each Month
The best approach combines small, steady changes:
- Cut about 500 calories from your daily food intake
- Walk or do other activities you actually enjoy
- Get 7-8 hours of sleep every night
- Track your meals to stay aware of what you eat
Even losing just 5% of your body weight can lower your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. If you weigh 200 pounds, that’s only 10 pounds—totally doable in 6-8 weeks.
When You Need Extra Help
Sometimes diet and exercise aren’t enough on their own. If you’ve been trying but still struggle, medical support can make a real difference. At Yorktown Health Lisle Primary Care Center, we offer GLP-1 weight loss programs with medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide that help when lifestyle changes need a boost.
We also support people managing diabetes, heart disease, and other conditions that make losing weight harder.
Final Thoughts
Healthy weight loss takes time, but it actually works. Aim for 4 to 8 pounds each month through changes you can live with forever. Need personalized support? Contact us today, we’re here to help you reach your goals safely and keep the weight off for good.