8 Health Reasons to Lose Weight

Losing weight will certainly make you feel and look better. But slimming down to an ideal weight can have more health benefits than you think. Researchers have discovered numerous connections between losing weight and improved memory, sleep patterns, better looking and healthier skin and even arthritis relief. Here are some of the benefits weight loss can have on your health.

Improved Memory

A recent study has shown that losing weight can actually boost your memory. In this study, 109 individuals who had gastric bypass nectarleaf surgery had been compared to a control group who did not lose any weight. Researchers discovered that after 12 weeks, individuals who had a weight loss treatment showed a significant improvement in memory-related tasks. Keep this in mind when trying to [intlink id=”3670″ type=”post”]lose some weight[/intlink].

Improved Sleep

The link between excess weight and sleep apnea is well known. Individuals who are overweight have extra tissue in the back of their throat, which can block the airway and the flow of air into the lungs while they sleep. Although losing weight is easier said than done, it can yield some real results.

Improved Mood

Being overweight can cause a hormone imbalance, including the ones which are responsible for your mood. Many overweight individuals deal with severe depression, which in turn lowers their willpower and capability to do anything about it. Therefore, weight loss can lead to a happier life by reducing the symptoms and severity of depression.

Better Looking Skin

Being overweight affects the skin in a number of ways. Diets high in fat and sugar lead to pale, greasy skin, often ridden with skin tags and adding weight quickly can cause the appearance of stretch marks.

Arthritis Support

Different studies have shown a correlation between weight loss and reduced symptoms of arthritis. The most recent study, comprised of 87 adults with arthritis has found that those in the weight loss group experienced pain relief and an increase in mobility when compared to the control group.

Feet Support

Having a few extra pounds may not seem like such a big deal. However, the excess weight can be detrimental to the health of your feet, as they endure more pressure than usual. Losing weight takes that pressure off, reducing the pain and helping you get around more easily.

Asthma Support

Being overweight can be a burden on the respiratory system, leading to impaired breathing and worsening of asthma symptoms outpatient rehab Massachusetts. It also burdens the adrenal gland, which is responsible for the management of asthma and allergies.

Diabetes Support

Obesity and type 2 diabetes are closely related to each other. This is the reason that for some individuals reaching a healthier weight can lead to taking less medications to manage their diabetes, or in some cases, no longer needing them at all. Losing  5% to 10% of your body weight and trying to exercise for at least a 150 minutes a week may help you slow down or even stop the progress of type 2 diabetes, making this an excellent reason to lose weight.