5. With 10 percent less weight to haul around, you'll have more energy -- not just to keep up with your exercise program (and maybe take a few more laps around the park), but to enjoy your life.

6. With less weight on your frame, you'll put less pressure on your joints. You might find those nagging aches and pains disappearing on their own. Also, the same studies about systemic inflammation show that many people with osteoarthritis report less pain when they can bring more balance to their immune systems -- which you will be doing by losing weight and eating a healthier diet.

7. Sleep apnea is a distressing and potentially deadly sleep disorder that is sometimes caused by being overweight. If you have a lot to lose, giving that 10 percent the boot could help you sleep better at night, stop annoying your partner and possibly, prevent hypertension, erectile dysfunction in men and even heart attacks.