There are a variety of important factors that contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Maintaining a healthy weight and body composition is one of the best ways to prevent many of the health complications that can come as a result of an unhealthy lifestyle.

There are also five essential elements that play a part in maintaining a healthy weight. Each are interdependent, meaning that to achieve the best possible results it is important to invest in each one to live a healthy live.

1. Nutrition

To achieve the best results and ensure that your hard work pays off, consider reducing excess calories from fat and refined carbohydrates such as sweetened beverages, as well as maintaining an adequate amount of protein in your diet. Other important features of a healthy eating plan include incorporating appropriate amounts of dietary fiber, fruits, and vegetables. It is also wise to consider consuming a quality dietary supplement to assure that you receive adequate amounts of essential nutrients during the time of reduced caloric intake.

Many fall into the trap of focusing solely on exercise without paying any regard to what they eat. While exercise is a highly important factor in the management of a healthy weight and body composition, without a properly balanced diet, your physical activity will not be as effective. A recent study found that women who wanted to lose excess “baby weight” through exercise without making any changes to their diet were not able to achieve significant results. In contrast, women who combined exercise with a healthy diet were able to have far more positive results.

2. Exercise

Just as you cannot hope to achieve your weight management goals without eating correctly, you cannot maintain a healthy lifestyle without regular exercise.

Regular exercise helps maintain muscle as well as influences a sense of well-being. Health professionals recommend at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity for health, and 60-90 minutes for a specific weight management goal. This doesn’t always have to equate to running on a treadmill, but can include activities like walking, hiking, resistance training, or other physical recreation. Find something that you enjoy doing and strive to make physical activity a part of your daily life!

3. Sleep

Sleep is also an essential part of staying healthy and can have a huge effect on a weight management regime. One study of women showed that getting more than seven hours of sleep each night is crucial when it comes to weight management, and that those who had fewer than seven hours of sleep each night were more likely to gain weight in the future. Why? Sleep loss can cause changes in hormone levels, which in turn are likely to cause increased hunger and appetite. This can also lead to unhealthy eating habits.

4. Hydration

At the most basic level, hydration is an integral part of sustained health. Proper hydration is a key part of achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.

Additionally, if you are middle aged or older studies have shown that drinking a cup of water or two before each meal can help lower the occurrence of obesity.

5. Stress Management

While many commonly view stress as a mental or psychological issue, you may be surprised to learn that it can have an effect on your physical health. Stress management has been proven to be highly correlated with effective weight management. Taking the time to relax and de-stress is crucial, whether you go for a walk, do some yoga, or listen to calming music, find something that helps you unwind and relieve stress. You will find that it can have incredible physical and mental benefits.

Maintaining a healthy weight requires diligence and consistency, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Be sure to consult with your physician prior to starting any diet or change in exercise program. Examine each of these five factors in your own life and identify the areas in which you can improve to live a healthier, happier life.