Weight Reduction

Illnesses and conditions caused and worsened by excess weight cost the health care system millions of dollars a year. And the human toll is even greater, as much of the money is going toward fighting knee, heart, back and stomach troubles that significantly reduce quality of life.

The regrettable fact is that in our culture plenty of people take abuse for being overweight. Reducing your weight can not only bolster your self esteem, it can also give you more energy for the things you like to do. Freeing yourself of some excess pounds makes you that much more likely to check out the view from a nearby hill or ask that special someone on a date.

The only safe and effective way to reduce your weight is to lower your calories intake and increase your physical activity level. Be creative and persistent in your quest to reach a healthier, more attractive weight.

Too often, people start out strong, purchasing expensive gym memberships or exercise equipment for the home, joining a fat farm or beginning a miracle diet. These people have been sold a “dream,” but the dream seldom comes true.

Instead, consider making some smaller investments of time and money. Take a friend out for a casual round of tennis at the local court, pick up a used bicycle and see where it takes you—and of course, when you have a choice, take the stairs.

It’s important not to rush into big changes in your eating habits. Start small, such as thinking twice before leftovers. If you eat dessert every day, cut back to three times a week. Increase your fruit and vegetable intake, and hold back a little bit with the eggs and red meat. With a gradual approach, your tastes and habits will change, and at no point will you feel like you're suffering.