A key to weight loss is to set realistic expectations and to build SLOWLY on success. Nearly ALL clinical studies have shown that for effective, LT weight loss and maintenance of the lower weight, one needs to make and sustain lifestlye changes: portion control, better food choices, increase exercise, elimination of unhealthy behaviors/habits, etc. Even weight loss presciption drugs show the same results.
A realistic weight loss goal is ONE pound per week. Anyone can drop 5-10 pounds fast -- it is water weight and will come back. However, to make a real difference takes time. It took time to gain the weight, it will take time to lose the weight.
The TWO alternatives to this are as follows:
(1) Bariatric surgery -- here you do have drastic weight loss -- as a cost of $40,000+ and a 1/300 chance of dying of complications of the surgery. Unless you are 100+ pounds overweight, no legitimate physician will do this procedure.
(2) VLCD (very low calorie diet) -- A structured very low calorie diet through a company such as HMR (see the HMR @ Home program) -- with counseling and support can help you hit this goal. However, to do so, you are basically completely changing your eating habits for the next 12 weeks. You have to consider yourself in "weight loss bootcamp" and follow the regiment to a tee. Doing so, you will lose a lot of weight fast. If you can handle this -- it is hard with families, kids, etc. -- then it can do the trick.
Carpe diem, baby!