MakatiMed gives the skinny on obesity
MANILA, Philippines - A perfect figure and the self-confidence that comes with it shouldn’t be one’s only motivation to stay fit. More than just affecting your physique, obesity or being overweight poses life-threatening problems to your overall health. Over time, this increases the likelihood of other health problems you may encounter, such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, musculoskeletal disorders, and some cancers.
With obesity fast becoming a growing concern for adults and children alike all over the world, Makati Medical Center steps up and offers preventive tips that benefit not just your outward looks, but also your general well-being.
• Keep a food diary. It is an effective tool that helps you determine your calorie intake per day, if too many or too few. It can also help you know if your diet is balanced, and if you are getting the right proportions of your carb-fat-protein. Learn how to read Nutrition Facts labels, so you can compare product to product in the grocery and make the right food choices. Be cautious in interpreting labels like “no added sugar,” “all natural,” and “reduced fat.” Get tips on eating out. Know how to choose the lesser “evil” when you do not have much to choose from when dining out.
• Watch your portion sizes and servings. Do not skip meals. Avoid frequent snacking on calorie-dense food. Cut regular soft drinks, fruit juices, and “wake me uppers” like frapuccinos from your diet. If you do not have fluid restrictions per day, take a glass of water before, in between, and after having your meal. And if you must, replace regular soft drinks with diet or zero calorie.
Education received from a professional nutritionist may be your best investment in achieving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
• Take that extra step to watch your weight regularly. Invest in a scale for your home, and monitor your weight every week. That way, when you find out that you’re beginning to put on some pounds, you can address the problem at once.
• Engage in physical activities to keep yourself active and never let a busy day become an excuse to avoid them. Simple things such as walking to work, parking the car a little bit further each time, standing occasionally or walking back and forth while on the phone for a prolonged period of time, walking the dog, or taking the stairs instead of the elevator can actually help you stay fit. Anything is better than nothing! But, of course, throwing in intentional forms of exercise, such as going to the gym or taking up dance classes, all the more improves and maintains your fitness level. Follow an exercise routine that is suitable for you.
