Good Weight Management

Weight control is indeed the weightiest question to be raised by many, many people.

But weight control is not just a matter of looking good. It is a vital matter healthwise. There is an ideal weight for everyone, with a reasonably wide margin. But outside that margin, whether too fat or too thin, health problems can occur. We all know the dangers of obesity as far as our health is concerned.

Many persons with weight problems will jokingly refer to their whole family being "good doers", and they are probably right. Genetics play a large role in both our shape and our ability to store fat. However, what this really means is that some of us have work a bit harder at weight management than others!

The first rule for successful weight management is Put away the scales! Yes, weight alone is no indication of whether you are losing your excess fat stores. Get out your tape measure, and measure your hips and your waist. Weight loss management is required if the waist:hip ratio exceeds 0.9 for males or 0.8 for females.

Are you an apple or a pear? The "apple" shape is when the fat distribution has the main deposits around the stomach. The Australian "beer gut" is a good example.

The "apple shape" is a risk factor for the development of diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, research has shown that it is easier to shed "apple fat" than "pear fat".

"Pear fat" is when the main fat deposits are around the hips and thighs. There is not quite the same risk of health problems, but it is harder to eliminate "pear fat". However -- it can be done!

Many weight management programs concentrate almost entirely on what a person eats. But exercise, especially walking or cycling, is a significant essential in any weight loss or maintenance program.

Consider enrolling in the Free Health Courses on offer. One whole lesson is dedicated to those wishing to win the battle of the bulge. You won't regret your decision.

If you would like more information or e-mail support, please contact me. I look forward to hearing from you.

The bottom photo was taken along the walking/cycling path that follows the Canning River at Shelley, Western Australia.