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Weight loss is a reduction in body mass characterized by a loss of adipose tissue (body fat) and skeletal muscle.
Over 100 million adult Americans are overweight or obese. Being overweight or obese increases a person’s chances for developing serious health problems, especially heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer. How does someone know if they are overweight or obese? Research on obesity has shown that a measurement called body mass index (or BMI for short) can be used to assess a person’s level of body fat.
BMI does not measure body fat directly, but it does correspond fairly closely to direct measures of body fat in most people. Therefore, it can be considered an alternative for direct measures of body fat.
The number is determined using a person’s height and weight. Because the calculation requires only height and weight, it is an inexpensive and easy-to-use method of screening for weight categories that may lead to health problems.
Excess weight and obesity have been associated with an increased risk for numerous medical conditions, including
• heart disease,
• high blood pressure,
• stroke,
• diabetes,
• osteoarthritis,
• some types of cancers,
• sleep apnea, and
• elevated blood cholesterol levels.
It should be noted that reduction in weight for those who are overweight can make a major impact on the conditions listed above. Many overweight people also report improved mood, increased in self-esteem and motivation, and feeling healthier in general after they have lost weight.
Medication linked to Weight Loss: |
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