text: if you go without food will it help you lose weight? if i go without food but drink water and protein shakes will it help me lose weight? burn more calories everyday. it sounds simple but it works. most people do not know how to calculate this. the basic formula is calories consumed minus basal metabolic rate (bmr) minus physical activity.  click here for a good example of what to eat: http://www.rayandterry.com/html/images/pyramidlrg.gif?oscsid=26a424be471d1337e7c2f105d5c64d9d  the current issue of "muscle and fitness" magazine has some excellent workout routines that won't get you bored.   remember, diet and exercise is best for lasting weight loss.