The question "How do I lose weight?" gets typed into Google 110,000 or so times per month. The answers that pop up are usually ridiculous "tips" that don't actually explain what a person needs to do in order lose weight and keep it off.

The truth is that sustainable weight loss occurs by making healthy alterations to your diet, eating fewer overall calories, and exercising at least 60 minutes 3-4 days per week.

How To Lose Weight:

Know how many calories your body needs.
Follow a balanced nutrition plan and track your calorie intake.
Exercise at least 60 minutes, 3-4 days per week and lift weights.
Perform high intensity interval training 3 days per week.
Aim for a 1 to 2 pound weight loss each week.

The trouble, however, is that most of us don't like to make changes to a lifestyle we're comfortable living. So eating less and moving more becomes a fierce battle. The couch and a bag of chips win far, far more often than they should. You can argue and struggle as much as you like, but the only scientifically proven way to lose weight and keep it off is through diet and exercise.