\u201cOur findings challenge the idea that all obese individuals need to lose weight,\u201d says lead author Jennifer Kuk, a professor in York\u2019s School of Kinesiology & Health Science, Faculty of Health. \u201cMoreover, it\u2019s possible that trying \u2013 and failing \u2013 to lose weight may be more detrimental than simply staying at an elevated body weight and engaging in a healthy lifestyle that includes physical activity and a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n
Kuk\u2019s team looked at 6,000 obese Americans over a 16-year span, comparing their mortality risk with that of lean individuals.<\/p>\n
They found that obese individuals who had no (or only mild) physical, psychological or physiological impairments had a higher body weight in early adulthood, were happier with this higher body weight, and had attempted to lose weight less frequently during their lives. However, these individuals were also more likely to be physically active and consume a healthy diet.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yfile\/photos\/20110818\/scales.jpg\")
Right: Individuals should consult their physician about whether or not they need to shed the extra weight<\/strong><\/p>\n