The natural and safest method to treat obesity is to diet and exercise. Dieting helps reduce the amount of calories consumed and exercise utilizes those calories, further decreasing the overall daily calorie intake. The goal for daily calorie intake is 1200-1400 calories. This target can be achieved through numerous methods. A popular method is the use of liquid meal replacement formulas and protein shakes. Lamentably, these artificial alternatives, although convenient, are far from providing the same balance of nutrients as whole foods. Additionally, using artificial meal replacements have been shown to not be very effective after a year or so. Eating “real food” forces good eating habits and therefore helps maintain weight loss in the long run.
