How much weight do I have to lose to see significant health benefits?

It's amazing how losing just a little weight can pay such big benefits. When overweight people (with an average weight of 225 pounds) lose about 7.5 percent of their body weight (about 17 pounds or 4 inches of waist size), they improve their HDL "good" cholesterol and LDL "bad" cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and blood sugar numbers by—get this—20 percent. That's nearly three times the benefit compared to percentage weight loss.

Losing 5% to 10% of your body weight has been linked to medically significant health benefits, such as reducing risk factors of developing type 2 diabetes and lowering your blood pressure.
 
Losing 5% to 10% of your body weight may also help:

• lowers your body’s cholesterol levels
• can improve blood glucose control
• reduces aches and pains
• improves mobility 
• can improve your breathing
• helps you to sleep better
• reduces the risk of sleep apnea
• may reduce dose or need for some medications
• reduces the risk of certain cancers

Your emotional health will also benefit. People who have lost 5% to 10% of their body weight report improvements in quality of life, and increased vitality.

Weight Watchers offers a comprehensive approach to weight loss that can help you reach your goals. Learn more about Weight Watchers and how to join.