### Human:\nhow rapidly can you lose weight and still be considered healthy?\n\n### Assistant: it's generally recommended that losing no more than 2 pounds a week is a safe and effective way to lose weight and keep it off. it may not sound like much but 2 pounds a week for 5 weeks is 10 pounds! often when beginning a weight loss and exercise program you can lose more weight during the first week -- especially if you are considerably overweight. but don't be discouraged if the weight loss tapers to one or two pounds per week. you are still moving in the right direction.