What is the most effective way to lose weight sustainably?

Combining diet and exercise is the most effective way to lose weight sustainably because it addresses both calorie intake and energy expenditure, promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle. This approach allows for gradual weight loss that can be maintained over time, as it encourages the development of healthy eating habits alongside regular physical activity.

When individuals modify their diet, they can create a calorie deficit, which is essential for weight loss. Simultaneously, incorporating exercise enhances calorie burning and helps preserve lean muscle mass during weight loss, which is crucial for maintaining metabolic rate and preventing weight regain. This holistic method fosters not just short-term reductions in weight but promotes overall health and well-being, making it easier to sustain weight loss long-term.

On the other hand, extreme dieting often leads to nutrient deficiencies and is difficult to maintain, while skipping meals can contribute to unhealthy eating patterns and may cause overeating later. Simply increasing exercise without adjusting diet may not be as effective in creating the caloric deficit necessary for weight loss. Therefore, the combination of both diet and exercise is a well-rounded strategy for sustainable weight loss.