Successful and Healthy Weight Loss - The basics of successful and healthy weight loss and maintenance of healthy body weight
Overweight has reached epidemic proportions and according to the World Health Organization (WHO) over 1 billion of world’s population is overweight or obese. Inadequate physical activity and consumption of nutrient-poor foods with high levels of saturated fats and sugar are most commonly the main causes of excess pounds which greatly increase risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes type 2, hypertension, stroke and even some types of cancer.
While causes and health risks of overweight are well known, successful weight loss and healthy weight maintenance are still matters of debate even between experts. There are countless theories, tips and products which promise rapid weight loss with little effort. Various weight loss pills, supplements and revolutionary diets are very tempting especially to all who have little time to cook a healthy meal and to be physically active most days of the week. Unfortunately, many weight loss products are not as effective as claimed, while diets which promise quick results usually result in regain of lost pounds.
The key to successful and healthy weight loss is balance between intake of calories and physical activity although weight loss is much more than just dieting and exercising. Successful and healthy weight loss requires change of lifestyle - permanent change of diet and exercise habits and a lot of persistence, self-discipline and patience. It is important to be aware that healthy weight loss foresees loss of no more than 1 to 2 pounds per week and that it does not end when achieving your goal - optimal body weight. Maintaining healthy weight is a lifelong process and there is no going back to old diet habits and giving up exercise.