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Today’s Ingredients

I want to start today by saying that weight health is a complex topic without a one-size-fits-all set of definitions or guidelines. The healthiest weight range for your body depends on myriad factors and may change over time.

That said, if you and your doctor have determined that your health would benefit from losing weight, then you may have some questions about how to get started. To help bring some clarity, Michelle Steil, health coach at Healthline’s sister brand, Real Appeal, is here with some pointers.

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Hope this helps!
Ginger Wojcik
Newsletter Editor, Healthline

Written by Ginger Wojcik
September 11, 2026 • 3.5 min read

Let’s Ask the Dietitian

Q:	What advice do you have for someone who is in the beginning stages of losing weight?

Once people learn of your decision to lose weight, suddenly everyone is a dieting expert.

“Have you tried fasting? Keto? Paleo? Cleansing? Detoxing? Low carb? Juicing? Probiotics?” Even advice from a doctor can leave you questioning which is the best route.

Thank your friends for their well-meaning advice, and then start doing your homework. Be cautious of programs and products promising results that sound too good to be true. Start making nutritional changes, such as incorporating whole plant foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, and water, and decreasing sweets, snacks, fast foods, enriched flour, refined sugar, and saturated fat.

Exercise is also essential to weight loss, so find options that make you feel good about your body. A gym membership may be for you if you prefer to work out with other people. For the homebody, tailor your activity to your level and ability with online workout guides and videos. A workout buddy or accountability partner can go a long way in keeping you motivated and on track!

(Take this quiz to find out what type of exercise is best for you! Note that the quiz may not be accessible if you live in certain states.)

Weight loss requires patience and a willingness to develop new habits, so a solid support system is vital. But there are people who care and want to help. Some weight-loss programs provide coaching support. A registered dietitian (RD or RDN) has formal nutrition education and a post-graduate degree. Nutritionists have varying credentials depending on the U.S. location. A board certified health and wellness coach (NBC-HWC) can provide nutritional and well-being coaching. Think about interviewing one or all three. A support system may consist of more than one of these experts.

Finally, be mindful of your readiness to change. Knowing which stage you’re in can help you create lasting change by taking it at an appropriate pace, which is key to sustainable weight loss. If you need more time to research before moving forward, that’s OK. You’ll be better equipped to handle all the advice people give. Only you can decide the best path to take.

Michelle Steil, Health Coach

Want to learn more about food, diets, cooking, or some other nutrition subject? Let us know at nutritionedition@healthline.com and we'll look into it for you! (Heads up, we may use your response in an upcoming newsletter.)

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the takeout

What we’re digesting

🧓 How to live your best life as you age. Use these tips to help you age gracefully from the inside out.

🍭 What’s an “empty calorie”? Plus some tips for limiting them in your diet.

🧼 Cleaning routines to reduce cold and flu transmission at home. A few strategic sanitary habits can cut your risk of getting sick.

🫘 The best sources of protein for older adults. Did you know that eating enough protein can help prevent falls and injuries?

Until next time,

Take care of yourself, and we’ll see
you again soon!

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