But now the stats are in, and an entirely different picture has emerged. The first thing we see is that weight loss programs that rely on diets or food plans simply don't work anyway. Less than 2% of people manage to maintain a healthy weight using that type of weight loss approach, and most people in fact actually put weight on because of dieting.

In addition we now know that online programs equal or outperform live programs, even when compared to having your own personal therapist or counsellor.

Certainly some people who undertake weight loss online will still require the close support and supervision of a mental health specialist, but likewise online programs are proving their value across a range of issues: depression, anxiety, weight loss, smoking cessation, relationship problems, chronic pain, etc.

And the aim of all help is to support you toward self reliance in any case!

So how do you choose a self-help program for weight loss? Avoid methods which have been proven not to work, like hypnosis, dieting or eating plans, or new-age visualisation. These are a waste of your time, money and effort! Instead, look for programs that have a scientific basis and have been tested in clinical trial. They will be run by experienced psychologists or other qualified health practitioners (but remember that these days ph.d.'s can be purchased and are not necessarily bona fide). Google the name of the developer of the method and make sure they're not a fraud.

Likewise be aware that not all conventional approaches to weight loss are worthwhile either! For example cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is often regarded as highly-effective, and many studies claim that this is the case. But analysis of those studies shows that the conclusions are not valid, and that CBT is little better than placebo (sugar pills). So you do need to do your research.

Also, do not be sucked in by sites which provide copious testimonials in an effort to part you with your money. Professional therapists or clinicians don't use testimonials because it's regarded as unethical and a betrayal of the client/therapist relationship. In the world of health, testimonials shout out "amateur"! So instead of testimonials, look for a single modest statement, or a small set of case studies, and most definitely look for actual clinical research!

Why are testimonials not worth the paper (or screen) they're written on? Because they are in no way representative of the total population. They can be made up or paid for, and they can also represent purely a placebo factor. Protect yourself by totally ignoring testimonials.

So the evidence is sufficient for you to feel deeply confident about using an online weight loss program, provided you check the research that underpins the program, and you check to make sure the support forum is run by qualified professionals, not just moderated by members of the general public who are also trying to lose weight.

Would you like to learn about a lifestyle approach to weight loss that is easy to follow online? Luckily for you there are 2 free books that detail the crucial lifestyle mistakes that lead to overweight, as well as showing you just how incredibly easy it is to kill off those cravings. They're available at TopLifeSolutions.com amongst a whole range of great freebies. You have to join to get them, but that's free too! The aim? To give you better methods for achieving your health goals, so that you live bigger, better and brighter! TopLifeSolutions.com is part of the Kind Communities Initiative.