Weight Loss

Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of numerous health conditions, including but not limited to, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, sleep apnea, and certain types of cancer.

Carrying excess weight can reduce the spine’s ability to properly absorb daily impact and movement. Over time, excess weight can contribute to various health conditions, including herniated discs, sciatica, and spinal arthritis. Losing belly fat reduces pressure on the spine and improves mobility.

Weight loss also reduces pressure on the joints, which equates to less wear and tear. For example, losing just five pounds can reduce 15 to 20 pounds of pressure on the knee when walking.

Losing excess weight also reduces inflammation. Body fat releases inflammation-producing chemicals in the body; therefore, weight loss naturally reduces inflammation. Less inflammation results in less pain.

Long-term weight loss often involves a change of mindset. Consistent, permanent changes in eating habits rather than intermittent crash dieting helps ensure success. Eating a nutrient-rich diet, such as a Mediterranean diet, and engaging in some form of exercise on a regular basis are the cornerstones of weight loss. However, simple lifestyle tweaks, such as reducing portion sizes and keeping unhealthy snacks out of the house, can also have a big impact on weight loss.

Consulting a physician before starting a weight loss plan is recommended. It is important to note that fad diets or severe fasting diets can be detrimental rather than helpful and can ultimately result in weight gain rather than weight loss.