Currently the British Population is getting fatter.  Over the last 20 years the average weight of the British population has trebled.  At the moment 60% of the British population are classed as overweight or obese: with 22% of us being obese.  Obesity is where body weight is having an adverse effect on health.

What is the problem with being obese?

You are more likely to develop:   

·         Type 2 diabetes            

·         High blood pressure

·         Joint problems

·         Sleep apnoea

·         Certain types of Cancer

To Calculate your Body Mass Index

1) Firstly you need to get your weight in kilograms & your height in metres

2) Then divide your weight by your height and divide the answer by your height again; this will give you your BMI

**Alternatively if you access the following web site you will be able to enter your height and weight and your BMI will be calculated for you **

www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/magazine/interactive/bmi/index.aspx

When should you worry about your weight?

If your BMI is between 25 and 29 then you are overweight.   Take care and try to reduce your weight slightly and keep a check on the BMI level

If your BMI is 30 – 40 you are obese and need to try and lose at least 10% of your weight to improve your health.

If your BMI is over 40 then you should discuss this with your doctor, as your weight is seriously affecting your health.

Access more dietary information for Weight Loss on:

www.bdaweightwise.com

www.teenweightwise.com

Remember: MOVE MORE, MORE OFTEN!!

What should you do to try and lose weight?

·         Keep food diaries for a few days including a weekend day.

·         Look at the type of food being eaten and the amount of snacking.

·         Mark down all the foods & drinks that are high in sugar and fat, and those drinks of alcohol!

·         Look for foods such as fried foods, pastry goods, rich sauces, biscuits, sugary drinks and snacks.

·         Ask yourself if you could remove these from the diet and what could be eaten instead?

·         Count up how many portions of fruits and vegetables eaten in a day.  Is it less than five?  Can it be made to be more than five?  How?

·         Be realistic – weigh only once a week in the same clothing and on the same scales.  Individuals should try to lose only 5% of the start weight in three months.  This will help your health and is achievable.

For a ‘Losing Weight’ Getting Started Leaflet please click below

LOSING WEIGHT - GETTING STARTED