Weight loss can sometimes seem like an insurmountable task, but the benefits of losing even a small percentage of your body weight can be tremendous.

Research has shown that shedding just 13% of your body weight can have significant improvements on several diseases, so here are five conditions that can benefit from modest weight loss:.

1. Type 2 Diabetes

Weight loss has been shown to be an effective treatment for those with type 2 diabetes. As weight decreases, the body’s insulin sensitivity can improve, leading to better blood glucose control and reducing the need for medication.

A study by the American Diabetes Association found that patients who lost at least 10% of their body weight had a 16% reduction in their A1C levels, a measure of blood glucose control. This reduction was equivalent to the effects of medication.

Another study showed that sustained weight loss of at least 7% of baseline body weight was associated with a 58% reduced risk of developing diabetes.

2. High Blood Pressure

Obesity is a risk factor for the development of high blood pressure, or hypertension. Hypertension can lead to cardiovascular disease, stroke, and kidney disease.

Losing weight has been shown to reduce blood pressure, even in those not taking blood pressure medications.

A study published in the American Journal of Hypertension found that weight loss of 5-10% of baseline weight was associated with an average decrease of 3.5 mmHg systolic blood pressure and 2.5 mmHg diastolic blood pressure.

These reductions are significant and can potentially lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and improve overall health.

3. Sleep Apnea

Obesity is a leading risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where breathing is interrupted during sleep. Excess weight can put pressure on the airways, causing them to become blocked or collapsed.

Losing weight can reduce the severity of sleep apnea, leading to better sleep and improved quality of life.

A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that weight loss of 10% or more of baseline body weight was associated with significant improvements in sleep apnea symptoms.

In addition, those who lost weight were more likely to experience a reduction in the severity of their sleep apnea and improve their adherence to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.

4. Joint Pain

Excess weight can put a significant strain on the joints, leading to joint pain, osteoarthritis, and other joint disorders.

Weight loss can help to reduce joint pain and improve mobility, allowing individuals to engage in physical activity and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology found that weight loss of at least 10% of baseline body weight was associated with significant reductions in knee joint pain and improvements in physical function.

In addition, participants who lost weight had reduced inflammation levels, which can lead to reduced joint pain and improved overall health.

5. Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Obesity is a major risk factor for the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition in which fat accumulates in the liver, leading to inflammation and damage.

Weight loss can improve liver function and reduce the risk of developing liver disease.

A study published in the Journal of Hepatology found that weight loss of 10% or more of baseline body weight was associated with significant reductions in liver fat content and improvements in liver function tests.

In addition, those who lost weight had reduced levels of inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to liver disease.

Overall, losing even a small percentage of body weight can have significant health benefits. These five conditions are just a few examples of the many diseases that can be improved with weight loss.

If you are struggling with weight loss, speak to your doctor and develop a plan that is right for you.