The benefits of losing weight

Once you know if you need to lose weight, it's important to understand how to do it in a healthy way.

If you're trying to lose weight, the safe weekly rate of weight loss is between 0.5kg and 1kg. That's between about 1lb and 2lb a week.

You'll probably already know that weight loss takes time and commitment. But even losing a small amount of weight (5% for most people) can produce significant health benefits.

It can reduce your risk of developing obesity-related diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. There are many other health benefits to losing weight:

• You'll protect your hips and knees and help prevent or delay joint problems like osteoarthritis.
• You'll improve the quality of your sleep. Losing weight can help reduce snoring, sweating and pain, helping you to get a better night's sleep.
• You'll support your immune system, as maintaining a healthy weight can help your body fight off infections and stay strong. It may also lower your chances of becoming seriously ill from common illnesses.
• It helps improve your mobility - losing weight takes pressure off your joints and muscles. You may find it easier to move around, stay active, and feel more flexible. Better posture and balance can also help you to feel more stable and confident.
• Higher self-esteem and confidence. Many people feel better about themselves and their bodies after making healthy changes. Feeling more in control of your health can boost your confidence.
• Boosting your energy. You'll probably find you have more energy as a result of losing weight and becoming fitter. This means you'll be able to do more of the things you enjoy, with less tiredness or effort.
• You'll reduce your long term risk of disease. Losing just 5% of your body weight can have a positive effect on blood pressure, blood cholesterol, blood sugar levels and heart health. This can lower your risk of serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, some cancers and fertility issues.
• Your hair may look healthier, and your skin may get clearer too. Some people notice clearer skin and shinier hair after making healthy lifestyle changes, like eating well and staying active.

What's next  

Continue learning more about how weight loss will affect your future

Finished learning for now then begin your weight loss journey