When setting out on our weight loss journeys its essential we recognise the advantages that losing weight offers us to assist in our motivation when travelling through challenging periods.
To achieve our goals, we need to examine the different ways that losing weight can enrich our social lives, along with our physical and psychological health.
Create a list of these benefits that signify the most to you, supporting you to maintain yourself on your journey. Do not stow away this list flaunt it when demoralised to inspire you.
Health Benefits
You don't have to lose hundreds of pounds to enjoy the well-being offered through weight loss.
Studies reveal that just 5% to 10% reduction of your overall weight can benefit your health.
Decreased joint pain
Decreased risk of certain cancers
Decreased risk of diabetes
decreased risk of heart disease
Decreased risk of stroke
Decreased risk or improvement in symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Decreased risk or improvement in symptoms of sleep apnea
Improved blood sugar levels
Improved cholesterol levels
Improved mobility
Lowered blood pressure
Reduced back pain
Reduction in medication
Every 1lb you lose is 4lb of pressure of your knees according to the 'Messiers' Study, further more its suggested an individual who lost 10lb, would be subject to a total of 48,000 less pounds of pressure of every mile walked.
Lifestyle Benefits
Additional to the health benefits are improved lifestyle benefits, those that have lost weight report:
Better Sleep
Decreased Stress
Greater confidence
Improved body image
Improved energy
Improved mood
Improved sex life
Improved vitality
More active social life
Physical activity
Exercising offers us many additional health and lifestyle benefits. It also boasts many mental health advantages. A scientific review in 2019 determined that exercise can be as effective for treating depression as other first-line treatments and is vastly underutilized as a treatment method.
Another article published in the 'Frontiers in Psychiatry' Journal in 2013, explored the links between physical activity and anxiety. It was found that the addition of exercise led to an increase in Self-efficacy and improved the persons ability to feel confident in their success. The articles authors also found that exercise can function as a distraction from anxiety, reducing symptoms of anxiety by helping a person focus on other actions.
Bottomline
Having social support can certainly have a positive impact on your weight loss journey, but to ensure long-term success, make sure that ultimately you're losing weight for yourself and your personal goals.
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