by Ave Yarrum

Created on: May 16, 2009   Last Updated: May 22, 2009

Ten Reasons to Lose Ten Percent of Your Body Weight

Whenever you think about weight loss, the first consideration is your reason to lose the weight. Only after consulting with your doctor about your plan, should you continue and then reap the benefits.

The 10 good reasons to lose 10% of your body weight:

1. You will feel better.

2. Your clothes will fit better.

3. You will ask your heart to service less body weight.

4. You will have more energy.

5. You will look younger with extra pounds off.

6. Your weight loss will give you a mental lift.

7. Your new habits will affect your family's behavior and outlook on a healthy weight.

8. Your hip bones will function easier by toting less weight around.

9. Your knees will benefit from less strain.

10. You will probably live longer.

The benefits are undeniably important. But how can you achieve your goals! If your doctor has given you the go-ahead, begin now. One of the best things to do is determine how much 10% of your weight actually is. A woman weighing 153 pounds, will consider losing 15 pounds. That frame is going to look great at 138 pounds. Do not make the mistake of trying to take those pounds off in one week. Begin with writing down your weight each day. Don't worry if the two pound dropped on Wednesday is back on the plus side on Saturday. Weigh at the same time in the morning and before you dress or eat.

Keeping track of what you eat, the calories being taken in, is a very effective way of making headway. Remember that it takes a certain amount of calories to function properly. It is when you take in more calories than you need that the scale tips the other way. Many charts will give you guidelines for a healthy caloric intake. Research and be very specific in your portion control. This process becomes simple math. All you now need is the will power to restrict your lazy eating habits.

Craving food is a horrible feeling. It must be a bit like beginning to drown...panic. This doesn't have to be. Calmly choose to think of doing the right thing and achieving your goal. The best advise on this problem is to have a Panic List. List some activities that take you away from the source of food.

1. Get out of the kitchen.

2. Close the pantry door.

3. Go try on those pants that you hope you fit better in a few months.

4. Go for a walk to the park or some place that has no taco stand.

You see where this is leading. Drive the thought of food out of your mind and practice some activities that will help. Take a deep breath and begin planning where you will show off those pants. You didn't gain those 15 pounds overnight. Stop trying to lose them overnight or you are just kidding yourself and wasting time.

You must build new habits. This activity is not just for now. It is for a lifetime of new habits. Get your family involved and go skating. Take afternoon walks on Sunday or play in the sand or snow. You will benefit from a simple weight loss of 10% of your body weight.

Learn more about this author, Ave Yarrum.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.