Did you know that being overweight is one of the most common risk factors for developing vein issues? Excess weight places every organ in your body under greater stress, including your veins. Your physician can help you determine your ideal weight and how to lose extra pounds. Here are some simple ways to help you lose weight over time:

Walk more: Everything from walking the dog to grocery shopping burns calories. An extra 20 minutes of physical activity a day, or an additional 2,000 steps, can make a big difference. Use an activity tracker to log your steps. How can you add more steps to your day? Taking the stairs instead of the elevator, for example, can really add up. Commit to a daily walk (or two!) The average American walks 3,000 to 4,000 steps a day, or about 1.5 to 2 miles. Try to aim for 5,000 to 10,000 steps each day. (Ask your physician what level of activity is right for you.)

Cut back on alcohol: A healthy practice is to drink no more than one to two calorie-laden alcoholic drinks per day for men, and one drink per day for women.

Embrace leftovers: Portion sizes in restaurants are simply out of control. Ask for a to-go container when you order. That way you can enjoy half your entrée the next day. Watch portion sizes when you cook at home, too.

Eat natural foods: For snacks, try fruit and vegetables. It’s easy to overeat when it comes to chips and other processed foods — even those labeled ‘healthy’ or ‘reduced calorie’.

Drink water: H2O is important for all metabolic processes as well as aiding digestion, weight loss and healthy skin tone. Consuming eight to 10 8-ounce glasses of water each day is key to avoiding dehydration. Eating foods with a high-water content (like fruits and vegetables) also will contribute to your water intake. Too often, when we think we’re hungry, we’re actually dehydrated. Surprised? Drinking water throughout the day can help you determine whether you’re really hungry. Here’s to your health!