You want to lose weight because you will look better in your clothes, feel more confident or simply feel better. However, losing just a little bit of excess body weight can actually have huge advantages for your overall health. While a lot of people see the health benefits of losing weight as a side bonus of sorts, it should actually be the other way around. Check out these incredible benefits of weight loss for your overall health.
A Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
According to the Obesity Society, about 90 percent of people who have type 2 diabetes are overweight. However, losing just 10 percent of your body weight can reduce your risks of developing type 2 diabetes, and 10 percent really isn’t a whole lot. For example, someone weighing 250 pounds would only need to lose 25 pounds to lower their chances of developing type 2 diabetes.
A Stronger Immune System
Did you know that your immune system suffers if you are overweight? People who are overweight are more likely to get sick if they come in contact with a form of infectious bacteria.
The Obesity Action Coalition states that:
“Recent studies in humans and animal models affected by obesity have shown an impaired immune response or immune function leading to increased chances for various infections.”
Losing weight could actually mean you are less prone to illness, even if you do not lose a great deal of your body weight.
Get Better Sleep
People who are overweight are at a high risk of developing sleep apnea than those who are at a healthy weight. Sleep apnea is a disruption in your breathing while you sleep, which can be dangerous in extreme situations, but it can also affect your sleep cycles so you never reach the complete sleep you need to feel rested and alert in the morning.
Less Stress On Your Cardiovascular System
One of the most well-known repercussions of being overweight is putting stress on your heart. People who are overweight are more likely to see problems like heart disease and high blood pressure. Losing weight will mean you are doing something wonderful for your cardiovascular system because it will not have to work so hard to circulate blood and oxygen throughout your body.
Overall, losing weight when you know you have a few pounds you could stand to lose could be one of the most important decisions you ever make for your health. Reach out to us at Family First Urgent Care if you would like help with your weight-loss goals.
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