The Internet can be a wonderful source of information about weight loss, fitness and health issues if you know where to look. Here are some Web sites that we have found to be useful sources of reliable information. The listings highlight the best features of each site, but if you keep browsing you'll also find useful articles, links to other interesting sites, free e-mail newsletters, blogs and much more.
American Institute for Cancer Research
Dietitians will provide free answers by phone or e-mail to nutrition questions within three days. While you're waiting, browse through answers to popular queries or check out the Recipe Corner. (800) 843-8114.
eDiets.com
If you're a private person or someone who is too busy to go to a weekly meeting, support online has never been easier to find or use. This site offers support groups, a mentor program and a chat room, plus articles, tips and a free e-mail newsletter.
America on the Move Foundation
This organization provides free Web-based programs, tools and resources to individuals, families, groups and communities of all types and sizes, including a customized goal-setting feature and log to track your progress.
"Exercise: The Key to the Good Life"
This booklet from the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports offers a program of simple exercises to improve flexibility, strength and endurance. Many can be done from a chair or wheelchair. Also available in pdf.
Prevention.com
Click on Fitness to find lots of information about different types of exercise, especially walking. Find walking tips, quizzes and how-tos, even podcasts about walking.
Familydoctor.org
Information about living a healthy lifestyle with sections for men, women, seniors and children from the American Academy of Family Physicians.
HealthierUS.gov
This site offers "credible, accurate information to help Americans choose to live healthier lives." Topics include physical fitness, prevention, nutrition and making healthy choices.
Mayo Clinic
Find quizzes, health calculators and an "ask the expert" section, plus plenty of information about living well or managing a health condition.
Your Disease Risk
Complete this free questionnaire from the Harvard Center for Cancer Prevention to find out your risk of developing five of the most important diseases in the United States: cancer, diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis and stroke. Then get personalized tips for preventing them.
AARP
Information and advice on how to start walking. Order the free Physical Activities Workbook online or call (888) OUR-AARP and ask for stock number D561.
Fit Day Diet and Weight Loss Journal
This free online diet and weight loss journal helps you keep track of your daily caloric intake, exercise, weight loss and goals.
