Regine from New Orleans writes, "I am approximately 210 lbs and tired of it. I am about 5'8" and have always hovered around 165-170 lbs, but school and a baby have taken their toll on my body. I have now been 200 plus lbs (highest weight 224 lbs) for about three years and my chest (which have always been rather large D size) is now a DDD. On your advice a few months ago, I enrolled in the "Slim in 6" program by Beachbody. But I wanted to have a regimen that will show me results (I've been on this health track before and always seemed to fall off the wagon). Therefore, this time I sought the help of the folks at South Beach Diet. I am currently exercising anywhere from four to six times a week. I want to lose weight overall and tone up my pectorals so that I not only lose weight in the chest but also keep them firm. THIS IS MOST IMPORTANT TO ME! I am desperate to get rid of some of my fat but what I am observing is that my breasts are also sagging at the same time. What should I do?"

Well, first of all, what really impresses us is your enthusiasm and commitment to losing weight and becoming more fit. People who lack this don't go anywhere.

Let us talk about your specific questions now. You are definitely on the roll since you are exercising regularly which is key to weight loss and a better body.

Most people lose weight in almost all parts of the body when they diet/exercise but it is not always uniform and is an outcome of their body shape prior to exercising and what exercise they do. The rule of thumb is that the part in which you gain first, it will be the last one to lose. But you can do certain exercises that you lose more weight in the waist region, for example. That is why I always emphasize that weight loss is not about diet or exercise alone - it has to be a combination of the two. So what you have to watch out for is that you lose weight in a desirable way. That means retaining some fat in all the right places (chest, hips, etc.). Right exercise is key and what I mean by that is that you should monitor carefully as you make progress and change exercise routine in consultation with a personal trainer.

What else can you do to get a firm body?

Wait till you reach the weight level that you desire. Now take a look at your chest. Is it still saggy? Probably. You definitely have the option to pick plastic surgery (to have an almost perfect shape but at a price). Alternatively, you could simply do nothing and be happy with your firm, toned body that you should be proud of showing on the beach anyway. Wear a bra with plenty of support and one that also gives you a lift and you will be all set.

Do not waste any money on those miraculous breast enhancement pills and lotions. To keep yourself firm, you should regularly use a high-quality body firming lotion. You may not see overnight results, but it is best to use something that works over time and produces longer-lasting results. (Recommended product: Super-Skin Body Firming Lotion or SkinCeuticals Advanced Body Firming Lotion).

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