Following the BLE weight loss plan typically results in weight loss rates of one to three pounds per week. This rate is considered desirable. Blackburn, G. (1995). Effect of degree of weight loss on health benefits. Obesity Research, 3, 211S-216S. Regarding the 10 % figure, see: National Institutes of Health (U.S.), NHLBI Obesity Education Initiative, North American Association for the Study of Obesity, & National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2000). The practical guide: Identification, evaluation, and treatment of overweight and obesity in adults. Bethesda, Md.: National Institutes of Health, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, NHLBI Obesity Education Initiative, North American Association for the Study of Obesity.