There are thousands of different books, pills, clubs, magazines, special foods, supplements, gadgets, Internet sites, therapists, patches or clinics all offering ways to help you lose those pounds. But are they any good?  Based on past experiences, you may already know the answer to that for some. Another simple and effective test is that if it sounds too good to be true than it almost certainly is! This guide from the British Dietetic Association’s Weightwise website (www.bdaweightwise.com) will also help you to assess individual diets and weight loss programmes. Then read on for some pointers about other weight loss approaches, including what your doctor can offer.

Responsible weight loss plans should:

• Help you assess your weight and decide on a realistic, healthy target weight
• Recommend a maximum weekly weight loss of 0.5-1kg (1-2lbs) 
• Focus on long-term, lifestyle changes rather than a short-term, quick-fix approach
• Be based on scientifically-sound advice 
• Use a balanced, healthy eating approach 
• Recommend regular physical activity and offer practical, safe advice about being more active 
• Include some behaviour change techniques, such as keeping a dairy; how to cope with 'lapses' and 'high-risk' situations 
• Recommend some form of on-going support.