Weight Loss Lowers Cholesterol

Numerous studies have shown that weight losses of 5%-10% improve total cholesterol, LDL-to-HDL ratio, and the ratio of total-to-HDL cholesterol [1]. In one study, weight reduction of just 5.8% was associated with a 16% reduction in total cholesterol, an 18% increase in HDL cholesterol, and a 12% decrease in LDL cholesterol [1]. Another study documented significant decreases in total cholesterol, triglycerides, and VLDL in obese patients with baseline hyperlipidemia who maintained a weight loss of 7.6% [2].

[1] Blackburn G. Ob Res 1995;3(Suppl2):211S-216S.
[2] Ditschunheit HH, et al. Lipoprotein responses to weight loss and weight maintenance in high-risk obese subjects. Eur J Clin Nutr 2002;56:264-270.

The Ten Commandments of Weight Loss

1. Ideal Weight and Body Mass Index (bmi) Calculator

Most people want to be as close to the ideal weight as possible. If it weren't so, you wouldn't be reading this now... However, when it comes to define the ideal weight, things are not so clear. What some consider normal weight, others view as too fat or too thin... This is where science is really helpful.

Ideal Weight and BMI Calculator
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Body Mass Index (BMI) and Mortality

The graph below shows very clearly how the risk of death through heart disease starts to climb at bmi levels at about 25, both in men and women. The same is true of many other chronic diseases.
bmi and mortality

Most people want to be as close to the ideal weight as possible. If it were not so, you would not be reading this now, isn't it? However, when it comes to define the ideal weight, things are not so clear. What some consider normal weight, others view as too fat or too thin... This is where science is really helpful.

Based on studies of large numbers of people of all ages and races, we have today several ways to assess people's weight. One of the most accurate and easy to use is the body mass index, or bmi.

What is the bmi?

The body mass index is simply a number, derived by using height and weight measurements, that gives a general indication if weight falls within a healthy range. If your bmi is between 18.5 and 25, you are said to have a normal weight. If it's over 25, you are overweight, and over 30 we are talking about obesity.

How Do I Know What My Ideal Weight Is?

Usually an ideal body weight is equivalent to a bmi of about 22. If you have tried using bmi tables to figure out your ideal weight, you may know it can be quite confusing. That's why we decided to offer you this simple ideal weight and overweight calculator. You just have to enter your personal information, and you'll find out what your ideal weight is. Moreover, if you are overweight, it will tell you how many extra pounds you have.

To find out more about bmi, please visit this CDC page.

Dr Gily

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