5 Ways Weight Loss Improves Your Overall Health

5 Ways Weight Loss Improves Your Overall Health

Keeping a trim figure is hardly a new craze; men and women have been trying to fit the mold of picture-perfect health for many years. But all too often, the conversation about weight loss shifts to how we look rather than how healthy we are. 

We're on a mission to change that. 

Dr. Michael Skardasis and our team at Optimal Performance Medicine want you to know how weight loss can change you from the inside out. Here's a closer look. 

1. Less joint pain

Some cases of joint pain stem from an underlying health condition, like psoriasis. But the most common cases are the result of gradual wear-and-tear on your joints, a joint disorder we call osteoarthritis. 

Osteoarthritis can happen to virtually anyone regardless of their weight, but being overweight certainly expedites the process. 

The joints in your lower half, namely your knee and hip, bear most of your body weight. Every step and movement takes a toll on your joints. That's why reducing the weight they have to carry can relieve achy joints and prevent them from deteriorating faster. 

2. Better sleep

You might not think being overweight has anything to do with how you sleep, but the number on the scale can significantly impact the number of Zs you catch. That's because being overweight puts you at risk for developing sleep-disrupting conditions like sleep apnea, back pain, and acid reflux. 

If you lose extra weight, especially the extra pounds you carry in your midsection, these conditions improve, and so does your sleep. 

3. More confidence

We never place cosmetic or external rewards above your health needs, but there's no denying that fitting into your old jeans gives you a huge confidence boost. And we'd argue that boosted confidence goes a long way toward improving your mood, outlook on life, and relationships with those around you. All of these help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. 

4. Increased energy

The heavier you are, the harder your body has to work to keep you going throughout the day. As you lose weight, you notice that you have more energy to spare. Bonus: Carrying fewer pounds can also contribute to improved oxygen efficiency, so you won't find yourself so out of breath. 

5. Better health stats

Being overweight increases your risk for high cholesterol and high blood pressure, which can lead to more serious issues like heart problems, stroke, and other diseases. But, as you start to lose weight, your body responds by flushing lowering your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, helping you avoid those more severe and potentially life-threatening health concerns. 

How we help you get there

Despite what the marketing firms and social media influencers tell you, no magic pill or plan gets you to reach your weight loss goals overnight. 

We understand weight loss as a lifelong journey that begins and ends with your health and wellness in mind. We start by thoroughly reviewing your health history and treatment goals. From there, we create a weight-loss plan that’s customized for you. 

Depending on your needs, that could include a nutrition plan, exercise program, counseling, etc. Dr. Skardasis and our team walk alongside you and help you reach all your weight loss goals. 

Ready to get started with a plan that will actually help you lose weight? Curious to know what other benefits you can expect from losing weight? We'd love to talk with you and help you get started on a life-changing health journey. 

Call or click to schedule a consultation with Dr. Skardasis at our Woodstock, Georgia, office today.

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