Overweight or Obesity in Adults: How to Prepare for Weight Loss?

Being overweight or living with obesity is a common health concern among adults worldwide. Losing weight is not just about appearance—it plays a key role in improving overall health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases, and enhancing quality of life. If you are overweight or obese, preparing yourself mentally and medically before starting a weight loss journey is essential. This article explains how to set realistic goals, find motivation, and understand the health benefits of weight loss.

Talk to Your Doctor Before Starting

If you are overweight or obese, it is important to discuss this with your primary care physician. Your doctor can help you define realistic and achievable weight loss goals, assess your health status, and identify possible risk factors. They will also support you in finding sources of motivation and, if needed, refer you to other healthcare professionals such as dietitians, nutritionists, or psychologists.

Overweight or Obesity: What Weight Loss Goals Should You Set?

Setting realistic weight loss goals is crucial. A modest weight loss—usually 5 to 10% of your initial body weight—can already lead to significant health benefits. Rapid or extreme weight loss is often difficult to maintain and may be harmful. Your goals should focus on gradual, sustainable changes rather than quick results.

Finding Motivation: A Key Factor in Successful Weight Loss

Motivation plays a central role in long-term weight management. Understanding why you want to lose weight—whether to improve mobility, reduce health risks, or feel better daily—can help you stay committed. Support from healthcare professionals, family, or structured programs can make a significant difference in maintaining motivation over time.

Losing Weight to Improve Your Health

Weight loss can have a positive impact on many aspects of health. It can help:

• Lower blood pressure

• Improve blood sugar control

• Reduce cholesterol levels

• Decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and joint problems

• Improve energy levels and overall well-being

Even small changes can lead to meaningful health improvements.

Conclusion

Preparing to lose weight when you are overweight or obese starts with informed decisions and professional guidance. By setting realistic goals, finding personal motivation, and focusing on health rather than rapid results, you can achieve sustainable weight loss. Consulting your doctor and adopting gradual lifestyle changes remain the safest and most effective approach to long-term success.

Trusted Medical Sources

• World Health Organization (WHO) – Obesity and overweight
  https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/obesity-and-overweight

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Healthy Weight
  https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/index.html

• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) – Weight Management
  https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management

• Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health – Obesity Prevention
  https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/obesity-prevention/