What's Better Than Weight Loss?

[Guest guest]

What's Better Than Weight Loss?

The following Daily Dish is part of a series for Healthy Weight Week.

While vanity is often the reason people strive to lose or maintain weight,

there's more than shedding pounds to keep in mind, according to Dr. Arthur

Agatston, preventive cardiologist and author of The South Beach DietT. " When you

focus only on the numbers on the scale, you lose sight of your overall health, "

he says. " In addition to weight loss, there are many important health-related

benefits associated with adopting good dietary habits. "

Obese or overweight people (those with a body mass index - a measurement of body

composition - of 25.0 or greater) have a higher risk of developing health

problems, including back pain, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and

some types of cancer. That's why Dr. Agatston recommends thinking beyond the

scale and directing your attention toward improving your overall health. " Losing

weight can help you lower your chances of developing these conditions, " he says.

" Making the right food choices and participating in regular exercise - the

approach set forth by The South Beach DietT - will help you enjoy better health

and increased energy, and you'll most likely lose weight in the process. In the

end, you'll look and feel better. "

There's no doubt about it: Losing weight is a long and challenging journey, but

the end result - a healthier you - is well worth the effort!