How long should I be looking at?

[Jacks147]

Hi I am going to start Weight Watchers in Jan as I am currently 147lbs overweight.  In my head I was hoping to lose this weight over a year, but is this too quick.  If it is what should I be looking at.  I will also start exercise with 3 x 30 min aerobics a week to start with as I have a painful foot condition called PF.

[James G Beckerman, M.D.]

Congratulations on getting motivated!

My general advice is not to put too much pressure on yourself to lose weight too quickly.  A good goal to start out with is 10 pounds a month for the first few months - it's realistic and achievable.  Based on that experience, you'll have a better sense of what you need to do to keep it going.

Best of luck!

[clarajo]

Hello Jack,
May be quick weight loss may cause that lose skin but it you loose your weight gradually you can avoid this loose skin. And also eat lots of fruits and vegetable which helps you to maintain good and healthy skin.

[Jacks147]

Thanks so much for your advice!

I also wondered if there is anything I can do to help prevent my skin going loose as I loose the weight, or is it too late at the weight I am at.  If it helps I am 5'4" approx 280lbs and female.  I already have stretch marks, which are fine they are my badges of honour as a Mother, but I do think if I may ended up with that excess skin I have seen when other people have lost considerable amounts of weight.

Thanks again!