Bohol, Philippines – Most people think that having lots of money is the true wealth. But it has been proven that having a good health is the true wealth. How can you enjoy money if you are not healthy? In order to have a healthy body, it is very important to have a healthy weight.
People who are overweight and obese have a greater risk of attracting many serious diseases and health conditions, including heart diseases, type II diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, gallstones, breathing problems, and certain cancers. To measure if you are overweight or obese is through the use of Body Mass Index (BMI). Thanks to internet because you can now have access BMI calculator online. Talk to your health care provider if you are concerned about your BMI.
There are many factors that contribute to a person’s weight including environment, family history and genetics, metabolism, and behavior or habits. What we can surely control is our lifestyle and eating habits to reach and maintain healthy weight. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is a life-long commitment which includes healthy eating, physical activity, optimal sleep, and stress reduction.
Popular weight loss products and diets generally doesn’t work in the long run. Making small changes to your diet and physical activity that you can consistently do is a better option so that you can replace bad old habits to new healthy habits. Choose to eat whole grains (whole wheat, oats, brown rice), whole fruits (not fruit juices), variety of colorful vegetables (not potatoes), healthy protein sources (fish, eggs, nuts, beans) and plant-based oils (olive, coconut, and other vegetable oils). Drink 8-10 glasses of water or other beverages that are calorie-free such as tea and black coffee without sugar.
Besides eating healthy diet, regular physical activity is very important to keeping weight in check. To lose weight, you need to burn more calories than you eat. Moderate-intensity activity up to 150 minutes a week is recommended for adults. Moderate examples are brisk walking, actively playing with children, light yard work, and biking at casual pace.
Losing weight isn’t easy, but there’s no doubt it’s worth it. // PNFP Arnold R. Bongcac, Jr., RN
