Why
a healthy weight is important
If your
BMI or your waist measurement is above the healthy range
(see
What's healthy)
you're at increased risk of a number of serious medical
conditions, especially heart disease and diabetes.
You're also more likely to suffer from joint problems
and back pain, and you may find you become breathless
and may have difficulty sleeping.
The
more weight you gain, the more severe these problems may
become. The good news is that losing weight will
alleviate many of these problems.
Weight loss
Losing weight is about eating fewer
calories than you burn off in your everyday life. Try to
make small but permanent changes to your lifestyle,
rather than opting for a dramatic new diet. You may lose
weight more slowly, but you'll reduce the chances of
regaining it again later.
Most doctors recommend that, on average,
you should aim to lose no more than 1kg (2lb) a week.
If
your weight stays the same for a week or two, don't
abandon all you've
achieved
Some weeks you may lose more weight than
others. As long as your weight is continuing to decrease
overall, there's no need to worry. If your weight stays
the same for a week or two, don't abandon all you've
achieved; instead, focus on the amount and type of foods
you are eating and try to be a little more active.
Losing five per cent of your initial body
weight in three months, or ten per cent in six to 12
months, is an excellent start. Reward yourself with a
special treat - a beauty treatment, a new item of
clothing or even a bunch of fresh flowers can all mark
your success.
www.bbc.co.uk
This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Rob Hicks
in October 2005.
First published in May 2001.
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