For many people, making the choice to get in shape and lose weight is motivated by two factors: looking better and feeling better. Losing even a few pounds can make a significant difference in the overall health of the body, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as improving the function and health of the entire cardiovascular system. Losing weight may also play a huge part in reducing blood glucose levels and helping the body control these levels more effectively, an important benefit if the individual is pre-diabetic or has diabetes. Of course, getting in shape physically and looking fit and healthy is also an important motivator. Losing excess fat while at the same time building muscle tissue will not only create a more slim and trim silhouette, but will also improve energy and stamina levels.
No matter what the motivating factor is, selecting a sensible weight loss plan is vital. The goal is to lose weight steadily, but not too quickly, and to keep it off long-term. Consulting with a doctor, especially if you have conditions or illnesses, such as high cholesterol or diabetes, is a wise place to start; they can assist in selecting a good weight-loss plan that is suitable for the individual’s needs and goals, while also being safe.
Cholesterol and healthy weight-loss
High-cholesterol is one of the most common motivators for a person over 40 to begin a weight-loss plan. Age, poor eating habits and lack of exercise can make it nearly impossible to manage cholesterol levels and, even if the doctor prescribes that an individual buy generic vytorin or other cholesterol-lowering medication, it may not be enough to successfully lower the “bad” LDL number. Making changes to lifestyle, including diet and exercise, and the resulting weight-loss that will occur, are the top way to successfully lower both LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
Losing weight sensibly
Healthy eating habits are the first step in sensibly dropping excess pounds. A number of different types of diets exist that decrease consumption of certain food groups such as carbohydrates but the important thing when losing weight is to control portion size. Eating several smaller meals and snacks throughout the day is better than fasting for long periods and binge at the regular meal times. Many of the most popular weight-loss plans rely on a meal structure that includes breakfast, lunch and dinner with light snacks in between and before bed. This is with the idea of keeping the body’s metabolism going, burning calories more steadily.
Heart-healthy diets have become increasingly popular as weight-loss and weight-maintenance options. In addition to be relatively easy to follow and including a host of delicious foods, heart-healthy diets have been shown to significantly lower LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglycerides. Heart-healthy diets include plenty of fruits and vegetables, fish and beans, as well as high-fiber grains and cereals and unsaturated fats such as olive oil.
While weight-loss may be achieved by simply changing dietary habits, exercise should be an important part of the process. Exercise stimulates the metabolism, tones the muscles, and increases flexibility and strength. A combination of cardio exercises, stretching and strength training are the most effective when it comes to losing weight.
