Each January we all give ourselves a reality check. Perhaps it is because it’s the start of the New Year and we tend to think about our health and set new goals for ourselves. It's not shocking that January is the month for Weight Loss Awareness around the world. According to activepause.com, weight loss is one of the top three New Year's resolutions.

Whiteland Community High School Head Nurse Jennifer Caldwell explained what she would suggest for someone who is trying to lose weight.

“I would try to find activities that are fun. Things that you like to do, whether it’s something sports related or something outside in nature. Find something that you like to do and try to stick with it,” Caldwell said. “I think you have to look at the big picture, whether it be exercise or a diet. All of those things combined make a healthy person.”

According to weightlossresources.co.uk Fat cells generally do not increase in number after puberty so even if you gain weight the number of fat cells you have remains the same.

Caldwell explained her view on whether weight loss is important to a person’s health.

“I think that being healthy is important, and if someone is in need of losing weight to be healthy, then absolutely [It is important[ but it all depends on each individual person,” Caldwell said. “ I don’t think that everyone should be a certain weight. Everyone has their own body style.”

According to weightlossresources.co.uk fat cells live for an average of ten years. Once a fat cell dies the body makes a brand new one to take its place.

Caldwell explained that it helps to find something that can motivate you through the challenges of losing weight.

“...Whether it’s trying to get healthy so that you can be more active with your friends or be healthy that way you can spend more time with your family. That’s different for each person,” Caldwell said.

Caldwell explained a way to help lose weight throughout the months with a support system.

“When trying to lose weight try buddying up with someone. I think you have to surround yourself with supportive people. Trying to build your self-confidence is a hard thing to do sometimes,” Caldwell said.

Using a BMI calculator is one way that many keep on track with their resolutions throughout the year. On Webmd.com they have a Body and BMI calculator for anyone who wishes to use it for their purposes.

According to activepause.com after six months, only 46 percent of individuals are still trying to maintain their resolution to lose weight. For those of you who struggle to keep going, I would recommend trying to get a schedule set up that way you don't miss any times through your goals.