Better nutriton, better health. That seems to be the message these days. Now that spring is beginning to show itself, people are thinking of swim suits and weight loss.

One of the basics of losing weight is consuming fewer calories than you burn. Couch potatoes can lose weight by decreasing calories.

A warning is necessary. When you decrease calories to the point that your body thinks it is being starved to death, it goes into "starvation mode." Your body starts holding everything it possibly can for future nutrition. It is possible to eat so little while dieting that the body gains weight. There is a delicate balance. The average woman needs at least 1000 to 1200 calories per day on a diet. Men need at least 1500.

With diet alone weight loss can happen. If you want both weight loss and fitness, you need exercise. Muscle tone lives in the realm of "use it or lose it." For those who want to start slowly, read the article about Isometric exercise. Walking is considered a "best exercise." Almost everyone can walk. It uses many muscles and gives the heart a workout. It does not require much financial investment.

According to Gabrielle Reece (http://health.yahoo.com/experts/gabbyguide/10934/diet-vs-exercise-for-weight-loss/), exercise has four benefits. In addition to burning calories, it changes your metabolism. Exercise seems to help overcome inertia to be more active on a regular basis. And using muscles makes them bigger and stronger.

Reputable weight loss and exercise programs ask you to check with your health care professional before beginning a program. Our bodies are living organisms and are in constant change. It pays to make sure you are aware of the current status when changing diet and exercise.