According to the World Health Organization, 67.4% of Australian adults are overweight. Obesity has also doubled in children since 1995 in the country. The Medical Journal of Australia describes obesity in Australia as “epidemic” with increasing frequency over the last two decades. The benefits of losing weight have been documented for years. However, the actual effort to lose weight can be more challenging. General benefits of losing weight include increased energy level, lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels, increased mobility and breathing, more productive sleep and reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.
The initial step of starting a weight loss program is a discussion with a doctor. A doctor can use a BMI calculator to determine a patient’s Body Mass Index. A more accurate calculator can be purchased. A healthy BMI score is between 20 and 25. A BMI calculator is a good indicator of a need to lose weight. A BMI calculator cannot offer suggestions on proper weight loss techniques or suggest a program though. It is important to discuss any efforts with a doctor or dietitian. A simple online BMI calculator uses height and weight to come up with a figure. The challenges of losing weight can seem astronomical. Finding the right program is crucial for successful weight loss. Unrealistic expectations can be one of the biggest challenges when you want to lose weight.
A weight loss program promising quick results is rarely effective for long-term weight loss. According to the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, steady weight loss in smaller amounts is more likely to be permanent.
Lack of motivation is another challenge you will likely face when trying to lose weight. Studies show that those who seek to lose weight are more successful at the attempt when they have sufficient encouragement. It helps to have a partner who is also going through the process of losing weight to provide mutual encouragement. Dietitians Association of Australia recommends that any weight loss program should include an exercise routine as well. Dietary changes alone will not produce maximum results. Another challenge of losing weight is finding a diet to match your personality.
Some individuals do well with a weight loss program that clearly spells out what must be eaten for each meal, including the size of each portion. Others have better results with a weight loss program that is more flexible. Diets that lack balanced nutrition should also be avoided. Skipping essential proteins and carbohydrates can do more harm than good. Start measuring your body mass index with a BMI calculator, and then check with a doctor before starting any weight loss program. A healthy weight loss amount is one to two pounds a week. Healthy weight loss will require changes in diet and lifestyle with the ultimate reward being a long, healthy life with lower chances of disease and illness.