9 steps to a healthy weight

Does it seem like no matter what you do, you just can’t seem to lose weight in your midsection? Although cutting calories and getting more exercise can be a challenge, the effort is worth it: Getting rid of excess fat around your middle with a healthy weight loss plan is good for your overall health.

"It's the idea of where belly fat is located that makes it 'bad,'” says registered nutritionist and dietitian Frances Silva, MS, of Medical City Lewisville in Texas. “Belly fat accumulating around your organs can increase your chances of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes."

Get tips from Silva and bariatric surgeon Matthew Fitzer, MD, of Reston Hospital Center in Virginia, on ways to address extra weight around your waist—and boost your overall health in the process.