More than one-third of Americans are obese, according to data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Obese individuals have higher risks of developing many dangerous health problems -- including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol and high blood pressure -- than individuals who maintain a healthy weight. Even moderate weight loss of 5 to 7 percent of a person's body weight can lower the risk of many obesity-related conditions and improve overall health. Always check with your doctor before beginning a weight loss plan.
Diet
Making healthy dietary changes is one of the best ways for obese people to lose weight and get thinner. Large portions and unhealthy foods high in calories and saturated fats are major contributing factors to obesity. Lowering daily calorie intake can help obese individuals lose 1 to 2 lb. per week, a healthy rate of weight loss for most people. Consuming fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, such as poultry, fish, beans and seeds, helps limit calories while still providing the body with essential nutrients. Some obese patients go on very low-calorie diets for short periods to promote rapid weight loss at the beginning of a long-term weight loss plan. Doctors monitor patients on very low-calorie diets closely, as staying on them too long or restricting calories too much can have adverse health effects.
Exercise
Beginning a regular exercise program forces the body to burn calories for energy, leading to weight loss. Obese individuals should strive for a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, according to the American College of Sports Medicine. Significant weight loss often requires 250 to 300 minutes of exercise each week. Any exercise is better than none, however, and obese patients can increase their activity level gradually as they build strength and endurance. High-impact activities may be difficult due to increased strain on the joints. Walking, water aerobics, swimming, bicycling and using an elliptical trainer are options for obese patients who cannot tolerate high-impact activity.
Medication
Obese patients who struggle to lose weight with diet and exercise may take medications to aid their weight loss efforts. Orlistat is a commonly prescribed prescription weight loss drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for long-term weight loss. The medication works by preventing the stomach from absorbing and digesting some fats. It is important for patients on orlistat to take a multivitamin because the drug can block some nutrient absorption. Orlistat is available over the counter under the brand name Alli. Obese individuals should always consult their doctors before taking medication for weight loss. Many over-the-counter weight loss aids contain stimulants that can cause dangerous side effects.
Surgery
Bariatric surgery helps many obese people lose significant amounts of weight, but the surgery also carries a high risk of complications. Surgery is typically reserved for extremely obese people who suffer from health problems. Some types of bariatric surgery prevent patients from overeating by restricting how much food the stomach can hold. Other procedures prevent the body from absorbing calories and nutrients. It is vital for bariatric surgery patients to work with their doctors to develop a long-term solution for their weight struggles so that they do not regain the weight lost after surgery.
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