Weight loss

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Weight loss

In the context of physical health, weight loss is the process of losing body weight, typically by losing fat. To achieve weight loss, more calories must be expended than taken in. This can be acheived by reducing the amount of food consumed, increasing physical activity or a combination of the two. For healthy weight loss, most experts recommend a combination of healthy eating patterns and regular physical exercise. Other methods of losing weight include use of perscribed or herbal drugs or chemicals that decrease appetite and/or increase physical activity, such as fenfluoramine, ephedra, nicotine or cocaine (see anti-obesity drugs). Surgical options are also available. Liposuction removes targeted area of fat and tissue while bariatric surgeries can result in large weight loss by reducing the size of the stomach or reducing the absorption of calories. Surgical and drug options may often have serious side effects.

A loss of weight can also be the symptom of some mental or physical diseases or disorders, such as anorexia nervosa or the cachexia associated with cancer or AIDS.

See also
Dieting
National Weight Control Registry
Obesity
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