Nutrition and Diabetes

		Joyce Barnett, MS, RD/LD Section Editor, Diabetes Assistant Professor, Department of Clinical Nutrition; UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas

Health Watch -- Weight Woes: Why Lose?
Posted: January 2005
Source: UT Southwestern Health Watch

If you're like many Americans, you promised yourself this would be the year that you will finally lose weight. And if you're like many Americans, you've already lapsed on all your good intentions. This week on "Healthwatch," we'll give you some helpful tips to get you back on track with your diet.

Let's consider why you want to lose weight. Yes, it would be nice to fit into your so-called "thin" jeans again or to look good for an upcoming class reunion. But the most important reason is - your health. Being overweight raises your risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and some forms of cancer. Doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that obesity even raises your risk of developing kidney stones. You raise your chances of living a longer, healthier life if you keep your weight within recommended levels.