Which result is a potential benefit for an overweight individual experiencing significant weight loss?

A common and clinically meaningful benefit of significant weight loss in an overweight individual isincreased insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone that helps move glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into body cells to be used for energy. When a person is overweight—especially with higher abdominal fat—cells often become less responsive to insulin, a condition calledinsulin resistance. To compensate, the body produces more insulin, and over time blood sugar control may worsen, increasing the risk forprediabetes and type 2 diabetes.

Weight loss can improve insulin sensitivity by reducing excess fat stores and lowering inflammation that interferes with normal insulin signaling. As cells respond better to insulin, the body can manage blood glucose more effectively, often resulting in steadier energy levels and improved metabolic health. This is one reason lifestyle changes that include improved nutrition and regular physical activity are emphasized for reducing diabetes risk.

The other options do not reflect typical health improvements linked to weight loss.Increased low-density lipoproteins (LDL)andincreased triglyceridesare generally considered unfavorable for cardiovascular health; healthy weight loss is more often associated with improvements in these markers (though individual results depend on diet quality, genetics, and activity).Increased muscle masscan occur if weight loss is paired with resistance training and adequate protein, but it is not the most consistent “automatic” outcome of weight loss; without strength training, some lean mass can be lost along with fat. The most reliable metabolic benefit highlighted in health education is better insulin action—meaningincreased insulin sensitivity.