Millions of people around the world battle weight issues. For many, it is the biggest health risk they face and it creates a multitude of other health issues. The sad thing is many of these problems are avoidable with just a few lifestyle changes.

The Risk of Being Overweight

Countless medical problems are associated with being overweight. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people who are overweight and obese increase their risk for type II diabetes, high cholesterol, liver and gallbladder disease, sleep apnea, cancer and heart disease.

Excess body weight is also hard on your bones and joints, and increases your risk for injury. Being overweight also zaps your energy. Many people report feeling more energetic and happier after losing just a few pounds at the beginning of their weight loss journey.

How You Can Make Changes

The best way to lose weight is by making long-term changes. Many people are overweight because they are using food to comfort emotional distress. Once the issues are resolved, eating becomes a tool for staying healthy, not as a substitution for emotional support.

Making the changes necessary to lose weight, especially if you have a significant amount to lose, is a challenge. It requires you to view your life in a different light and to commit to taking care of your body. It means changing your schedule to accommodate exercise and cooking nutritious meals. It can also include changes in your social life if you are lacking the support you need to make healthy changes.

Beware of the Scams

Unfortunately, there are a lot of scams out there and a lot of people want to take advantage of your weaknesses. People fall for weight loss scams only to find themselves just as overweight, but several dollars lighter than when they started. Products making dramatic promises do not work for long-term healthy weight loss. If something promises more than three pounds of weight loss each week or the ability to help you lose weight without changing your eating habits or increasing your physical activity, consider it a scam.

The truth is there is no simple solution to long-term weight loss. There are things you can do to jumpstart your weight loss plan for motivation and there are tricks you can use to take advantage of your existing metabolism, but lasting weight loss is never easy

Fortunately, it is worth it. Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for yourself. It improves your health, boosts your self-esteem, and leads to a better quality of life.

If you need weight loss support, browse our site for tips on nutrition, fitness, and, healthy living. We provide much of what you need to reach a healthy weight and avoid the health risks associated with excess weight.