Weight Loss | Full Tutorial

Weight loss is defined, in medical literature, as a reduction in the total body weight. This loss in body weight may be due to a loss of fluid, body fat and/or other tissues in the body.

Weight loss can be categorized as:

1. Intentional Weight Loss
2. Unintentional Weight Loss

Intentional weight loss is a decrease in body weight with a view to improving fitness and appearance. In individuals who are obese, intentional weight loss may prevent diseases such as hypertension and diabetes from settling in. For weight loss without any side effects, you must consult a physician and work in conjunction with a dietitian. They will help you develop a program which will be tailored to your body type and capabilities.

Body weight can reduce by a reduction in body fat or fluid. But when you are aiming for weight loss because of health reasons, try to reduce your body fat, and conserve the muscle and fluid. People who are otherwise healthy do not generally need to lose weight. Sometimes, demands of a profession such as athletics or modeling, may compel people to intentional lose weight. But in this case, the aim is more to achieve a certain body appearance rather than health concerns. One has to remember than people who are underweight also face significant health risks.

Unintentional weight loss may occur during or after a serious and chronic disease. In diabetes, weight loss is accompanies with thirst, fatigue, and hunger. Infections such as HIV may also contribute to weight loss. People who suffer from hormonal imbalances may show weight loss as a symptom. Temporary weight loss can be seen when people are laid up with mild illnesses such as viral fever, common cold, gastroenteritis etc. The effect of the illness on the general feeling of well being and the side effects of antibiotics sometimes decrease or suppress the appetite, leading to weight loss. This is temporary and weight generally reached pre illness levels soon.

Most of the intentional weight loss techniques prescribed by physicians revolve around adjusting the eating patterns and combining a healthy diet with ample exercise. In most overweight people, healthy intake and increased physical activity helps in weight loss. There are several other weight loss techniques which may be successful to varying degrees. Drugs and supplements to suppress appetite are becoming popular, but there is some debate about their usefulness. They may even be dangerous if taken injudiciously.