Everyone needs to understand the importance of weight loss. Obesity is not just a cosmetic problem; it's a serious health hazard as several mean diseases are linked to this condition. Heart disease and stroke are the leading causes of death and disability for people in the U.S. and overweight people are twice as likely to have high blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, then people who are not overweight.

Above these serious diseases, some other illnesses are linked to obesity, so a bit of attention to what we consume can do serious changes towards a healthier lifestyle. For example, atherosclerosis can begin early, but the process can be halted, even reversed, if you make healthy changes in your diet and lifestyle. The gradual bone thinning that result in osteoporosis may be slowed also if you consume enough calcium, maintain adequate vitamin D levels and participate in weight-bearing exercise.

Some people are genetically predisposed to diabetes, but if you keep your weight within a healthy range through diet and exercise, the disease may never strike you.

Very high blood levels of cholesterol can also lead to heart disease and often are linked to being overweight and also contribute to angina (chest pain caused by decreased oxygen to the heart) and sudden death from heart disease or stroke without any signs or symptoms. Some few extra pounds also burden the joints, especially the knees.

As obesity poses many health risks, measuring your body fat to help keep it within healthy ranges can greatly reduce the risk of conditions such as those listed above. Most commonly defined in terms of BMI (Body Mass Index) it is considered normal to have a BMI of 20-25, as above 25 is defined as overweight and above 30 is obese. With all the risks associated with obesity, it can be of great benefit to your health to maintain a healthy weight for your height, and stay within healthy BMI ranges.

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