Weight Management and Vision – Healthy Weight Week

​It probably comes as no surprise that losing weight is one of the most popular New Years’ resolutions. Getting to and maintaining a healthy weight is beneficial for overall well-being.

When it comes to your vision, weight management is also important. January 19th is the start of Healthy Weight Week. It is an excellent time to take steps to prevent obesity and maintain a healthy weight. 

How Can Obesity Affect Vision? 

It is easy for weight to creep up through the years. Bad eating habits, lack of exercise, and a slower metabolism as we age can all lead to weight gain.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in the United States, over 39 percent of adults are obese. Obesity is a risk factor for several diseases, including eye problems. For example, people that are overweight are at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. People with diabetes have a higher chance of developing eye diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy.

Although studies are mixed on the association of obesity and other eye diseases, some research shows a connection. Research published in the journal Survey of Ophthalmology indicated a link between obesity and an increased risk of glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and cataracts. The exact physiology behind the association between eye diseases and obesity is not entirely clear. But one theory is that obesity may increase inflammation in the eyes. More studies are needed to identify the exact cause and determine if losing weight decreases the risk.  
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Choosing the Best Weight Loss Plan 

There is no shortage of weight loss programs. From fad diets to hypnosis, there are many options, but with all the weight loss programs out there, how do you know what is best? Consider the suggestions below to help you choose the right plan for you.

Check with your healthcare provider first: Before starting a weight loss program, it is best to talk with your doctor. Your healthcare provider will evaluate your health and can educate you on any special precautions you need to take.

Consider other medical conditions: Popular diets include low carbohydrate, Mediterranean, and low-fat. The best diet plan may depend on other conditions you have, such as diabetes or heart disease.

Think about your lifestyle: Not every type of weight loss program works for everyone. Consider your lifestyle, such as whether you travel for work, have children, or work from home.

Select something that you can stick with: There is no “best” weight loss plan. It’s helpful to consider what will provide you with long-term success. For example, don’t choose a diet plan that has no flexibility or is so restrictive you won’t stay with it.

Be realistic: If you are trying to lose weight, it is vital to be practical. Aim for a slow and steady weight loss. The Mayo Clinic recommends losing one to two pounds a week. Trying to lose too much too soon can be unhealthy and might be difficult to achieve.

Know which weight loss plans to avoid: Just as you should know what to look for in a weight loss program, you should also know what to avoid. The American Council on Exercise recommends staying away from diet programs that eliminate an entire food group, which may prevent you from getting important nutrients. Diets that restrict calories too much may also backfire.
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Weight Management Tips 

Getting to and maintaining a healthy weight can be challenging. There are several things you can do to stay motivated and reach your goal. Consider the following suggestions:

• Do not weigh yourself every day unless instructed to do so by a doctor.
• Exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days.
• Be aware of portion size.
• Avoid fast food, which is often high in trans-fat.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Limit alcohol, which can be packed with calories.

Remember, maintaining a healthy weight is not just good for your eyes, it is beneficial for your overall health. We hope that the tips above help with your weight loss journey. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our ophthalmologists, please phone our office at 508-746-8600.