Weight control for self preservation

 

The main focus of most weight-loss advertising is on physical appearance, and though we all want to look good – in and out of our clothes – the main benefits of weight loss are actually to do with health.

 

• Losing 10% of your excess body weight reduces blood pressure, cholesterol and blood triglyceride levels; all of these are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Losing excess weight reduces blood glucose levels and halves the probability of you developing type-2 diabetes.
• Losing weight reduces the strain on weight-bearing joints (hips, knees, lower spine) and reduces the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
• Being overweight is a risk factor for developing cancer of the uterus, breast, gall bladder, colon and prostate.
• Losing excess weight can help to alleviate sleep apnea.
• Carrying excess weight puts strain on all your internal organs, not just your heart.
• Being overweight can cause complications during surgery.
• Being overweight means that you are less likely to take exercise, which in itself is a health risk.
• Reducing and then controlling your body weight increases self-esteem.
• Maintaining a healthy weight improves your quality of life as well as your longevity.

Adapting to a healthy lifestyle is the only way to achieve a healthy body weight.