It could be called the 10 percent solution: in recent years a steady stream of research has found that losing as little as 10 percent of body weight, or sometimes even less, has a disproportionately positive effect in improving health. Small weight losses significantly reduce the risk of a wide range of illnesses that have been linked to obesity, from heart disease and diabetes to some kinds of cancer. MORE than half of American women are overweight or obese, and as they age they are likely to get fatter and unhealthier. Chunking this goal down is the key to success! BENEFITS OF JUST 10% A Healthier Heart By losing just 10 percent of your body weight, you can lower your cholesterol and reduce your blood pressure. High cholesterol and elevated blood pressure are two major risk factors for heart disease. Lower Risk of Type 2 Diabetes If you're overweight, you're at increased risk for type 2 diabetes, which means your body can't make enough, or properly use, insulin, a hormone that helps convert food to usable energy. By losing just 10 percent of your body weight, you'll improve your body's ability to use the insulin it makes, possibly preventing the onset of the disease. If you already have type 2 diabetes, shedding that 10 percent may improve your symptoms and possibly prevent complications. More Pep Just a 10 percent weight loss increases feelings of vigor and vitality. You'll feel better and have more energy. A Mental Edge Losing 10 percent can give you the self-confidence and motivation you need to keep going. "Success builds on success!" But be sure you recognize it. Losing 10 percent is a milestone in the journey. Once you get there, take the time to congratulate yourself on your efforts. Reality Check After losing 10 percent, you gain a sense of what it will take to lose the rest and reach your final goal weight. It gives you a context in terms of saying, “Am I willing to put in that much more effort to lose even more weight?” If the answer is no, that's okay. Some people only lose 10 percent and that's it. If that's you, pat yourself on the back. Health-wise, a 10-percent weight loss is a great achievement. To learn more about Dr. Maj, text to the number:  44222 the message YOUCANBEWELL no spaces and you will receive the digital copy of her book delivered right to your inbox.   You Can Be Well, too! Dr. Stephanie Maj Women Seeking Wellness drmaj.com drmaj.metagenics.com CommunityChiropractic.net