Every year, millions of people promise to improve their health by eating healthier foods, exercising more, or losing weight. In the United States alone, the weight loss industry generates $72 billion annually.
Although some people may feel pressure to lose weight to conform to unrealistic and unhealthy body image standards, there are many valid health reasons to start a weight loss plan. Losing weight can have a significant impact on both your physical and mental health by preventing disease, improving your mobility, combating mental health issues, eliminating pain, and restoring bodily functions.
1. Disease Prevention
Photo Courtesy of Scholarship Media
Studies have demonstrated that obese people are more likely to get certain types of cancer, such as kidney, liver, and colorectal cancer. Losing weight can help decrease your risk of developing severe, life-threatening diseases. Weight loss can help regulate your blood sugar levels, which can prevent you from developing diabetes. You can also lower your blood pressure by losing weight, which will decrease your risk of suffering a heart attack or having a stroke.
Losing weight is a process. You may be wondering, what can I drink to burn belly fat? You can consume several healthy beverages to promote weight loss, including lemon water and green tea. Incorporating healthy beverages into your routine can also help you cut calories because many of the beverages are low in calories.
2. Improving Mobility
Your weight affects your ability to move. If you’re overweight, it takes more energy for your body to perform basic tasks, such as climbing stairs. Your weight also puts a strain on your body, which can cause injuries. People who are overweight may also have stooped shoulders and spinal damage.
Weight loss reduces the strain on your hips, spine, and shoulders. Misaligned joints can be adjusted to restore proper alignment. When you move, you will not put as much pressure on your muscles, ligaments, and joints. Losing weight enables you to increase your activity level while decreasing the strain that inhibited your mobility when you were overweight.
3. Mental Health Benefits
Photo Courtesy of Scholarship Media
Obesity has been linked to several types of mood disorders, including anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and depression. Individuals who struggle with severe mood disorders may have difficulty enjoying life, experience chronic fatigue, or become suicidal. Individuals who have mental health issues can benefit from therapy and support their treatment through weight loss.
Some people use food to console themselves when they feel depressed or anxious. Unfortunately, this can lead to weight gain, discouragement, and issues with their self-image.
Losing weight can strengthen your self-esteem. Eating healthy foods and exercising can be an effective way to treat moderate depression. Exercise prompts your body to release natural chemicals, such as serotonin, that improve your mood. Consuming fish and vitamin D can also increase your serotonin levels.
4. Eliminating Pain
Photo Courtesy of Scholarship Media
Excess weight can cause alignment issues with your joints. Those issues can decrease your mobility, and they can also cause chronic pain. Your muscles and joints can become inflamed due to the strain your weight puts on them. Inflammation can produce pain when you’re moving or sitting still. Living with pain can contribute to depression and anxiety.
Losing weight can relieve the strain and eliminate your inflammation. You will be able to be active without experiencing the chronic pain caused by your inflammation, which will improve your quality of life.
5. Improving Bodily Functions
Photo Courtesy of Scholarship Media
Obesity can interfere with your ability to sleep. In some cases, people develop sleep apnea, which can cause headaches and fatigue. Losing weight promotes healthy sleep patterns and also boosts your energy levels. Studies have also established a connection between weight and sex. Individuals who lose weight enjoy a more satisfying sex life than those who are overweight. Men who are obese are more likely to experience erectile dysfunction. Women who are overweight are more likely to experience vaginal dryness or have issues with their pelvic floor, leading to pain during intercourse.
