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5 Surprising Health Benefits of Weight Loss

5 Surprising Health Benefits of Weight Loss

At Alevizos Medical in Irvine, California, we specialize in personalized weight loss support that helps optimize your health and wellness. Led by board-certified physician John Alevizos, DO, who brings over three decades of experience, our practice is consistently recognized for its compassionate and patient-centered approach.

Dr. Alevizos approaches weight loss from a whole-body perspective. Through a comprehensive medical review, lab testing, and root-cause analysis, he helps uncover why your body may be retaining excess weight. 

From hormonal imbalance to Type 2 diabetes, we treat the source, not just the symptoms, while supporting your weight loss with a plan that fits your unique health needs.

You already know that weight loss can help you look your best and offers numerous health benefits. However, many people are unaware of just how significant those advantages can be. Today's blog delves into five of the weight loss benefits that might surprise you.

1. Better breathing (and possible sleep apnea remission!)

The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) measures how many times your breathing slows down or stops during sleep. Older studies have shown that patients who lost 10% of their excess weight experienced a 26% decrease in their AHI.   

Recent 10-year follow-up studies have shown that when patients maintain their weight and receive intensive lifestyle support, these benefits continue over time. In fact, over 34% of such patients achieved remission from sleep apnea. 

2. Improved mental health

Obesity and depression have a bi-directional relationship. A recent meta-analysis showed that people with obesity were 55% more likely to develop depression, while people with depression were nearly 60% more likely to develop obesity. 

The introduction of GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide (brand names like Ozempic® and Mounjaro®), has brought about some promising changes. 

Although official studies are ongoing, a recent social media analysis encompassing multiple platforms has shown that many patients taking GLP-1s report experiencing significant improvements in their mood. Many say they’ve overcome depression since starting the medication and losing weight. 

3. More energy

When you lose excess weight, your body doesn’t have to work as hard to handle daily activities. This means you have more energy in reserve, which boosts your stamina and reduces daytime tiredness. When you’re less tired during the day, you sleep better at night. This further improves your body’s ability to recharge and contributes to even more energy. 

 

Many people who lose weight find that they’re able to resume activities they once enjoyed but had to abandon when they gained weight, such as a favorite sport or hikes with their family. 

4. Stronger immune function

Fat cells can interfere with immune responses. As you lose weight, your body fights illness and inflammation better.

One study evaluated patients who lost weight alongside those who maintained their weight. It measured the T cells — immune cells that coordinate immune responses and fight infections and disease — in both groups. Two types of T cells, CD4 and CD8, were significantly higher in the group that lost weight.

What does this mean for you? Losing weight can help you have fewer sick days and more time to enjoy good health.

5. Healthier heart 

You already know that losing weight is good for general health, but did you know it can have a specific impact on heart health? 

Dropping just 5-10% of excess body weight can help overweight adults reduce their chances of developing heart-related issues. This means a lower risk of both heart disease and crisis events like heart attacks. 

Why the whole-person approach works for weight loss

At Alevizos Medical, we know your weight struggles aren’t just about willpower. They’re often connected to deeper medical issues. That’s why Dr. Alevizos performs a complete health evaluation, including lab testing and hormone checks.

We often uncover hidden conditions like prediabetes or thyroid problems that make it harder for your body to lose fat. Once we identify these barriers, Dr. Alevizos and our team will provide a treatment plan tailored to you. 

This includes weight loss medications that are safe, proven, and based on your needs. You also get support for building lean muscle, increasing energy, and enhancing your overall sense of well-being.

You don’t have to settle for frustration. If you’re ready to feel better, move easier, and gain energy, call us at 949-916-3600 to book your visit at Alevizos Medical in Irvine, California.

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