The Bigger Loser reality show presents the idea that rapid weight loss works. Rapid weight loss may result in the temporary loss of pounds, but dieters end up putting on even more pounds than they had before they started the program.

As a column in the Louisville Carrier-Journal points out this morning, the reason the contestants on The Biggest Loser shed so many pounds is that they exercise four to six hours a days and they are not engaging in a crash diet. This simply is not possible for most people.

Rather than trying to drop a large amount of weight at once, aim for 1-2 pounds a week. Start exercising and eat more vegetables. And when you think you've exchanged enough starches, snacks and meats for vegetables, eat even more vegetables. The pounds will come off and more importantly, they'll stay off.