Permanent weight loss is a quest that millions of people world-wide are taking part in. The sad part is that for most of them the quest will be a live-long journey through fad diets, which will take them on a roller coaster ride of losing and gaining weight.

Statistics

Over 100 million Americans are either overweight or obese. These people suffer, or will suffer, social, medical and physical effects. Though most of them will try to shed excess pounds, statistics show that 95% will not be successful keeping weight off.

Exercise

You don’t have to be included in these statistics. In order to successfully lose weight and maintain that weight loss, it is imperative to reverse your metabolism from fat storing to fat burning. Exercise is a must because muscle burns fat. In order to keep muscle at its fat burning peak, you must exercise mildly at least a half hour each day, five times per week. This prevents muscle breakdown, which in return prevents weight gain. Active muscle burns fat and sugar, lowers insulin levels and helps reverse insulin resistance. Many type 2 diabetics can control their sugar levels by keeping active and losing excess weight.

Walking for 30 minutes a day will help you maintain a healthy weight level. If possible, walk at least one mile everyday. This not only helps you maintain your weight but keeps your cardiovascular system in optimum health. Walking is the exercise that heart surgeons highly recommend for heart patients after open heart surgery. It also helps to prevent stroke. Walking is the best exercise that your body can get, so be sure to schedule at least a half hour into your weekly agenda. If you live in an area that has a lot of inclement weather, consider investing in a treadmill.