Are you re-committing to your health and fitness goals in 2012? Are you looking for that ‘spark’ that will trigger the weight loss fire? Are you struggling hard to find your way back to balance and will power? Then this read is for you! Today, Dr. Simran Saini, Weight Loss Management Consultant at Fortis Hospital tells us that simply losing 10% of body weight is just what's needed to get fit and start living a healthy life. 

The importance of losing 10% weight: Losing weight or rather maintaining an ideal body weight has many health benefits. Having an ideal body weight helps you to maintain a normal blood pressure and your blood sugar levels stay balanced as well. Your basal metabolic rate increases and you feel more active and light. Most importantly, it helps your joints carry the load of your entire body better and thus, prevent joint pains and problems.

What can just 10% weight loss do for me? 10% weight loss gives you a good start in treating any existing health conditions. For example, it reduces the stress on your circulatory system, thus helping to reduce hypertension, and a decrease in overall fats in your diet brings your cholesterol levels to a balance. Cutting down on extra carbohydrates such as in sugar, jam and rice helps to improve your sugar levels and even fight diabetes.

A 10% weight loss increases future weight loss chances: 10% weight loss increases future weight loss chances because your motivation is increased and this positive upsurge change prepares your body for weight loss. Moreover, your basal metabolic rate is increased which also aids your body in future weight loss.

Lifestyle modifications and the psyche behind losing 10% weight: First of all incorporating a physical workout regime in your daily routine is a must. It can be anything from aerobics and yoga to a simple walk or weight lifting. The stress should be on the timing, intensity and correct form. Secondly, you should start watching what you eat. Eat in small portions. Eat more unprocessed food and increase your intake of water. The basic psyche behind weight loss is to eat for your body and eat when you are hungry. If we stop eating for comfort and satisfaction or to satisfy our taste buds, then we can lose weight quicker. 

Ways to maintain that lost weight: To maintain your lost weight continue your daily workout regime even when you have attained your ideal body weight and continue to eat sensibly, rather than going on an eating spree just because you have lost the extra weight.

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