There are a whole host of benefits that comes with losing weight. Benefits that go far beyond just looking better in your next Insta-shots. And while looking good and feeling good is very important, other benefits are just as crucial. Here are 5 of the most important ones.
At one point or another during our lives, the vast majority of us find ourselves faced with a desire, or need, to lose weight. Women often struggle with losing weight gained through pregnancy. Societal changes also have a significant effect. Kids spend more time playing video games indoors rather than outdoor games and activities. Part of that is due to new exciting technology and busy parents working full time, and part of it is societal changes like the rise in crime around cities and towns, where kids can’t simply go out and play.
We all tend to add a few pounds during winter and holidays. Lockdowns during the COVID pandemic led to inactivity and a more sedentary life for most people. As we get older our bodies naturally “slow down”. We tend to move less.
Hormonal changes and decreased metabolism affects us all. Sore joints and muscles as we age has an effect as well. And then you add factors like diets high in fat, sugars, and processed foods.
All this and more has led to an obesity crisis that often starts when we’re young. A child with two obese parents has an 80% chance of being obese. 55% of obese children go on to be obese adults and 80% of obese adolescents go on to be obese adults. Genetics passed down from parent to child is a factor, but behavioral habits and diet are likely to be the main causes.
Losing weight brings about a range of benefits for both physical and mental well-being, and the benefits are many. Here are five key advantages of losing weight:
1. Improved Overall Health: Shedding excess weight can have a significant positive impact on your overall health. It reduces the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer, and joint problems. Losing weight will also improve cholesterol and blood sugar levels, leading to better metabolic health. Losing weight also affects your mental well-being, not only in terms of looking better and being treated differently by others but also in terms of brain chemistry. Studies show improvements in both memory and concentration.
2. Increased Energy Levels: Carrying around excess weight will make you feel sluggish and tired, often leading to further weight gain. However, as you lose weight, your energy levels increase. Your body becomes more efficient at utilizing energy, and physical activities become easier to perform. With increased energy, you can engage in more activities, leading to a more active and fulfilling lifestyle.
3. Enhanced Physical Fitness: Losing weight can greatly improve your physical fitness and athletic performance. When you shed excess pounds, your cardiovascular endurance and muscular strength tend to increase. Activities such as running, cycling, or everyday activities like climbing stairs become easier. You’ll also experience improved flexibility and agility. This can open up a whole new world of physical activities and sports for you to enjoy.
4. Improved Mental Well-being: Losing weight not only benefits your physical health but also has a positive impact on your mental well-being. Most people experience improved self-esteem and body image, which can boost confidence and self-worth. The stigma connected to being overweight is real and by losing weight you’ll be treated differently by others. Furthermore, weight loss often reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, as exercise and healthy eating habits release endorphins and positively affect brain chemistry.
5. Better Quality of Life: Losing excess weight can significantly enhance your overall quality of life. It often leads to increased mobility, allowing you to engage in activities and hobbies that may have been challenging before. Weight loss can also improve sleep quality, reducing the risk of sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. Additionally, losing weight will expand your wardrobe options, increase self-confidence in social situations, and improve intimate relationships.
Remember, it’s always important to approach weight loss in a healthy and sustainable manner. The solution is rarely a magic pill or supplement. Incorporating regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to ensure you’re making choices that align with your specific needs and goals is important.