WHY YOU SHOULDN’T IGNORE YOUR BATHROOM SCALE
Weight gain and weight loss challenges, coupled with generations of misinformation and ignorance, have made the bathroom scale the most eschewed household device. Having once topped the 400-pound mark myself, I am very familiar with the feeling.
The truth is, your scale is simply a measuring instrument. It gives quantitative data that is a direct reflection of your physical state (weight), the consequences of your choices, the results of your behavior, reactions, and lifestyle.
Your Weight as a Health Indicator
Your weight is a reflection of something happening in your body and your own actions. It’s not just a number; it’s a vital health indicator. Consider these points:
- Health Risks: A 20% decrease in weight is shown to reduce health risks. An increase in body weight indicates an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, joint and back pains, blindness, diabetes, and more.
- Quality of Life: Conversely, a decrease in weight indicates a decreased risk of many ailments and an improvement in quality of life potentials. Shedding pounds isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about overall well-being.
- Objective Measurement: Body weight (specifically body fat level) is not some subjective life factor. It’s a clear and definable indicator of how ill or healthy you are likely to be, how much pain you are likely to experience, how physically capable you will remain, and even how you are likely to die.
Should You Weigh Yourself?
The answer is a resounding yes! Here’s why:
- Early Detection: There’s a reason your doctor weighs you during check-ups. The number on the scale is an invaluable indicator of health. Even if you believe that you have no overweight issues, weighing occasionally is still a good idea. Many illnesses are caught early through observing weight gain or loss.
- Catch Fluctuations: Regular weigh-ins allow you to catch fluctuations before they become significant. Most people who have lost weight regain two-thirds or more within two years. By monitoring your weight, you can make timely adjustments to maintain a healthy balance.
Remember, your bathroom scale isn’t your enemy—it’s your health ally. So step on it, observe the numbers, and take charge of your well-being. Catch those fluctuations before they catch up with you!
