First, the good news. Exercise is good for you! According to the CDC, "regular physical activity helps improve your overall health and fitness, and reduces your risk for many chronic diseases." The CDC recommends 250 minutes a week of moderate activity (brisk walk). Second, the not-so-good news. Exercise alone isn't a cure for obesity. It takes one hour of jogging to burn the calories from a large milkshake. Depending on the type and amount of food you eat, you may not be able to exercise enough to maintain a healthy weight.

"The key to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight isn't about short-term dietary changes. It's about a lifestyle that includes healthy eating, regular physical activity, and balancing the number of calories you consume with the number of calories your body uses."

In order to achieve long-term weight loss success, it's often necessary to make lifestyle changes that include the food we eat. Eat nutritious meals that contain the food your body needs to live. Cutting down on sugary drinks, fatty meats and starchy processed foods is an important goal. Home-cooked meals are healthier, and cost less to make! Always look for the USDA Organic label on your foods.

Although exercise is an important part of healthy living, it should not be confused with "fitness" (bodybuilding). If you're obese, you may already be suffering from complications that prevent moderate exercise. California Medical Weight Management recommends Amy Rogg's DVD Video, "Yoga: Step 1" for a gentle exercise routine. Always consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise plan.