These practices may initially lead to weight loss, but the results are short-lived. People put the weight back on and are left feeling frustrated. Losing weight and keeping it off are the keys to a healthier lifestyle. This is especially difficult around the holidays when parties, eating, and drinking become a large part of life. Fifty-four percent of the American population is overweight or obese.
Increased weight is associated with diabetes, high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol levels.
Heart disease also is more prevalent in those who are overweight. All of these health problems lead to an increased mortality associated with excess weight. A weight loss of 10 percent, a realistic goal, generally improves all of these health problems. Add ten pounds to the result and the two numbers give you a good range to work toward or maintain. Lifestyle changes are the most important factors in a successful weight-loss program.