The New Year is a time for making resolutions and plans to improve or change something in our lives.
Losing weight is one of the most sought after changes. There are many reasons that an individual wants to lose weight.  But the most important reason is to improve health and vitality.  In other words, do it for yourself.
We’ve all heard the reasons many times, but I have found if I know why something is important, it is easier to do something that is hard. And losing weight is not easy and takes a lot of resolve and planning.

As the news and medical articles report, being overweight puts you at risk for disease and aggravates existing medical problems. There are a few key points that are worth repeating on the benefits of not being overweight.  Losing weight can:
• Prevent or reduce high blood pressure – sometimes to a level where blood pressure medication could be reduced or even eliminated.
• Improve blood sugar. If you’re a type 2 diabetic, just a 10 percent weight loss can greatly affect blood sugar levels.
• Improve cholesterol levels by modifying fat intake.
• Help decrease the chance of heart disease.
• Help with joint pain. It’s difficult for the natural cushions in your joints to withstand those extra pounds. Losing weight can reduce the wear and tear on joints.
• If you carry weight in your abdomen and have a back problem, losing weight and exercising
your abdominal muscles can greatly relieve your discomfort.
• If you have sleep apnea, even modest weight loss has shown it may alleviate the need for long-term therapy. It may also help ordinary snoring.
• Help your general health and help increase your body’s ability to fight disease.
Okay, these are some of the reasons losing weight is important. How do we go about achieving the results? To prevent disease or cure disease we go to a medical professional. Losing weight is no different. A medical professional with years of experience specializing in weight loss has the ability to diagnose problems and offer the best program. It may be medication and a personal food plan, or medical grade high protein snacks or a food replacement program such as Optifast.
Good health is available to each of us. We just need to reach out, get the help offered and make the resolution for success. Do it for yourself!
For more information and a free consultation contact Etcetera Medical Group, Weight Management at 661-259-8884.

Santa Clarita Magazine