People use many methods to try to treat obesity by losing weight. Different techniques work best for different individuals, and in some cases an obese person must try a variety of strategies before finding one that helps. Sometimes nothing seems to work, and the person remains unable to either lose weight or keep it off, no matter what they try.

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute stresses that any viable weight-loss program should focus on long-term goals. "Remember, quick weight loss methods don't provide lasting results.

Weight loss methods that rely on diet aids like drinks, prepackaged foods, or diet pills don't work in the long run.

Whether you lose weight on your own or with a group, remember that the most important changes are long-term."These long-term changes include making lifestyle adjustments that incorporate healthy eating and exercise...