Weight Loss Doesn't Have To Be Difficult

By Vickie Andrews, MBA, MPH

Gaining a few pounds during the year may not seem like a big problem. The truth of the matter is that excess weight leads to the risk of having many unhealthy conditions. Excess weight, being overweight and/or obese can catapult a once healthy individual into being at risk for one or more of the following health conditions type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and strokes, certain types of cancer, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, fatty liver disease, and kidney disease.

There are influences that contribute to weight gain; here are a few (a) high calorie foods, (b) out of control portions, (c) not enough exercise, (d) too much stress, (e) skipping meals, (f) not enough sleep, and (g) an unhealthy gut. Realizing which part or parts of your environment may cause weight gain can give you the power to overcome these influences and find ways to maintain a healthy weight.

How can weight loss help?

The good news is that no matter what your weight loss goal is, even a modest weight loss, will help. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2011) reports that losing 5 to 10 percent of your total body weight is likely to produce health benefits, such as improvements in blood pressure, blood cholesterol, and blood sugars.

Eating a nutritious diet is important for your body to thrive and for you to maintain the health you desire. To obtain a healthy weight focus on a well-balanced diet (1) introduce a variety of colors into your meals, (2) practice moderation when focusing on the different food groups, and (3) eat sensibly by watching portions. These simple tips can go along way toward helping you reach and maintain your weight loss goals.