WEIGHT LOSS
The importance of knowing your
Body Mass Index (BMI) or
Waist Circumference AUTHOR: DR. MUIREANN CULLEN ORGANISATION: NUTRITION AND HEALTH FOUNDATION
Why should we be concerned about our weight? In Ireland today, it is estimated that 16% of women and 20% of men are obese. A further 33% of women and 46% of men are overweight and could be on their way to becoming obese. Obesity is a very serious problem. At least 2,500 deaths can be attributed to it each year. Being overweight or obese has been shown to increase the likelihood of certain serious diseases and medical conditions for example:
How do I find out if I am overweight or obese? Below are two fairly quick and easy methods to help determine whether or not you are overweight or obese. In order to get an accurate measurement, you should consult a healthcare professional such as a GP or dietitian. Breathing problems, such as asthma and sleep apnoea (when a person stops breathing for a short time during sleep). Gallbladder disease and gallstones
Cancer
Diabetes
Gout Dementia
Heart disease and stroke
High blood pressure
Osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis which results from the breakdown and eventual loss of the cartilage (cushion between bones of joints) of one or more joints (a) Measure your body mass index (BMI) Your body mass index (BMI) is the number that relates your body weight to your height. It gives a general indication if your weight falls within a healthy range. It is the most widely used measurement for obesity. The score is valid for both men and women. It is important to remember that although BMI is linked with the amount of body fat, BMI does not directly measure body fat. As a result, some people, such as athletes, may have a BMI that identifies them as overweight even though they do not have
22 www.LifeandFitnessMag.ie - June/July 2010