Being Overweight?
The best indicator of being overweight is BMI (Body Mass Index)
To calculate your BMI:
- Measure your weight in kilograms
- Measure your height in metres
- Divide the weight by the height squared. This is your BMI
Your BMI gives an Indication of the Risk to your Health
Health Risks of Being Overweight
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Cancer
- Gout
- Respiratory problems
- Back pain
- Arthritis
Being overweight/obese can decrease your life span
Weight Loss is Rewarding
- You feel healthier
- Your blood cholesterol reduces
- If you are a diabetic, your blood sugar values improve
- Breathlessness decreases
- Your confidence increases
- You live a longer, healthier life
How Much Weight Should One Lose?
- Don't focus on reaching an “ideal” weight at the start
- Aim should be to lose approximately 5-10% of your current weight over a period of 6-12 months and stay at this reduced level
- This target is both realistic and achievable
- This reduction of 5-10% can significantly reduce your health risk by reducing your cholesterol levels, diabetes, heart disease and respiratory problems
- Every kilogram you lose is a step in the right direction. Every step in the right direction may improve your overall health
Is it Possible to Sustain this Weight Loss?
Unless you really WANT to lose weight, the chances are that you won't be very successful.
Sustained weight loss is definitely possible through an integrated program consisting of healthy food, more exercise and a change in lifestyle
Medicines are now available which can help you lose weight
Losing weight and keeping it off is a life-long effort.......but it is worth the effort