Being overweight or obese is associated with increased risk of
developing diabetes, Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) and stroke.
Losing weight could therefore drastically improve the health and
quality of life of someone who is overweight. On the other hand, if
you are already slim losing more weight can be very bad for your
health. People with an ideal weight should concentrate on
increasing their activity levels and improving their diet to
improve fitness and general health (see Wellbeing ).
The Waistline Test
You may decide to lose weight for the sake of your looks
or health, but first check that you really do need to;
Measure around your waist. Check where you are in the chart
below and see what action, if any, you need to take.
|
Woman's Waist Measurement
|
Man's Waist Measurement
|
Action Needed |
|
Less than 80cm or 31½ inches
|
Less than 94cm or 37 inches
|
Your weight is within the healthy range. If you need to shape
up, exercise is the key. Check you are eating a healthy, balanced
diet (see Wellbeing)
|
|
80 to 88cm or 31½ to 34½ inches
|
94 to 102cm or 37 to 40 inches
|
Try to lose some weight. Adapt your diet for steady weight loss
and long term results. Get more active in your daily routine.
|
|
Over 88cm or 34½ inches
|
Over 102cm or 40 inches
|
Take action to lose weight now! Adapt your diet for steady
weight loss and long term results. Try being a bit more active in
your daily routine.
|
