It's commonly known that the results of a good diet are rapidly noticeable. Obese and overweight people improve their metabolism by losing only a few pounds.
According to nutritionists gathered by the Research and Development in Health Association in Argentina, losing 10% of the total number of pounds needed to reach a healthy weight, reduces some of the effects that being overweight or obese can cause. 
This is great news not only for people who are slightly overweight, but also for those that are obese. Overweight or obese individuals can improve their health condition and gain satisfaction through moderate changes in their diet.
According to Jorge Braguinsky, ex vice-president of the International Society of Obesity, the figures clearly show the benefits:
- For each pound of weight lost, the risk of mortality due to cardiovascular complications decreases from 1.5 to 1.0%.
- Cholesterol levels decrease from 15 to 1%.
- Blood pressure decreases by one or two points.
- In diabetics, blood glucose decreases by 50%.
Why does a change in weight improve these health conditions?
Overweight and obesity are both labels for ranges of weight that are greater than what is generally considered healthy for a given height. The terms also identify ranges of weight that have been shown to increase the likelihood of certain diseases and other health problems. Therefore, by decreasing your weight, you are also decreasing your risk for health conditions that are associated with that extra weight.
Experts say that having the motivation to change (by eating better and exercising), is one of the most important factors in determining success.
To begin, here are some tips to help you cut out the fat, and therefore calories, from your diet:
- Use smaller quantities of fatty condiments (butter, mayonnaise and packaged sauces).
- Reduce snacks (french fries, popcorn, peanuts, etc.).
- Avoid frying with oil (exception olive oil) and butter.
- Eat lean meats and fish.
- Prepare chicken without the skin.
- Strain all products packaged in oil before using them.
- When baking, substitute two egg whites for a whole egg.
- Prepare homemade fruit sauces.
- Season or dress foods with lemon juice, vinegar and natural extracts.
Doctors say that getting used to new flavors can be a tasty experience. In the long run, it's also a wise economic decision. A report done by the World Watch Institute of Washington revealed that people in the United States spend $118 billion a year on treating health conditions related to overweight and obesity. Therefore, you should keep in mind that losing those pounds will not only get you into a smaller pants size, but will also help you stear clear of costly treatments associated with being overweight.
