More than 40 percent of Americans today are considered clinically obese–this life-threatening condition is taking a toll on our families, our relationships, and our health. According to recent statistics, overweight or obese individuals:
- Are more likely to die from heart attack or stroke
- Will encounter secondary health complications as they age
- Are twice as likely to develop autoimmune diseases and diabetes
- Will most likely need medical intervention if their condition persists
7 Signs You Need to Lose Weight
The reduced quality of life that comes with being overweight has far-reaching effects. While most people are aware of the signs and symptoms of being overweight, there are some who simply don’t know that their condition is dangerous and in need of attention. If you are wondering if you fall in the “danger” category, check out these symptoms:
1. If you have a “gut” feeling that something is off
Most of the time, we have the answers within—we need to listen to that small, persistent voice within us to let us know if we need to prioritize some self-care. If your clothes are tighter, if you are more fatigued, if you notice changes in sleeping or eating habits, pay attention. Your body might be trying to tell you something.
2. If your doctor or your numbers indicate that you are overweight
Doctors are highly paid to “tell it like it is”. You might not want to hear it, but you need to. Listen to what they have to say about your weight to height ratio, your BMI, and your state of general health. If they give you advice, follow it. Your health and your life might be at stake.
3. If you have started to snore
Loud snoring or gasping for breath is an indicator of sleep apnea, a condition that goes hand in hand with obesity. One of the most common indicators of being overweight or obese is sleep apnea; ask your partner if your sleep patterns have changed, or if you are keeping them up with your sonorous symphony.
4. If your weight only increases
If every single attempt at weight loss is failing, there is clearly a problem to be addressed. While a couple of pounds per year might not seem like a lot, over time it will creep up on you, causing additional health problems in the long run.
5. If your joints ache or hurt
Excess weight can put pressure on bones and joints; this wear and tear can cause additional pain and discomfort when even doing regular activity. If you find that you hurt more than usual, take note of other indicators that weight might be piling on, and get back on the straight and narrow with respect to diet and exercise.
6. If you are living in the zone of excuses
Stop making excuses that you are “too busy” or “too tired” to care for yourself. This attitude just perpetuates a cycle of bad choices that send you spinning out of control. It might be tempting to stop at the fast-food drive-through after a long day, but little choices will compound on themselves, causing you long term damage and degeneration. Do a little planning ahead and see what you can stock in your fridge and freezer for quick and healthy options; you’ll feel better, you’ll have more energy, and you will start to see the scale moving in the opposite direction.
7. Your clothes don’t fit anymore
It’s not your clothes that are shrinking; you are getting larger! One of the first things many people notice is that favorite pieces of clothing are fitting tighter and tighter; if you notice this trend among the pieces in your closet, start making better food choices and reverse the cycle.
Slim4Life: Healthy options, healthy weight
At Slim4life, we specialize in making healthy food accessible and affordable. Our optimal nutrition plans make it possible to lose between 3-5 pounds per week safely and efficiently. If you are interested in seeing better health and weight loss in the coming months, contact us today for more information. A healthier body is in your future!
