Weight Loss Extra

The world faces an obesity epidemic. Obesity is a chronic disease and it is estimated that at least 1.1 billion adults are overweight and that 312 million are obese. According to James et al, the prevalence of obesity has doubled or even risen threefold in less than two decades, while in children this is rising at an even faster rate.

How does being overweight or obese affect our health? Obesity is a major risk factor for coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes and some forms of cancer. Obese people are also at high risk for depression, job discrimination and other social problems. After tobacco use, obesity is the second-leading cause of preventable deaths. About six out of 10 South Africans are overweight or obese, and those numbers are rising. The number of children and teens who are overweight or obese is also expected to increase.

Overweight is classified as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) outside of the healthy range.
The BMI is currently the international standard for assessing weight.
BMI = Weight (kgs) ÷ Height ?(m) squared
BMI Categories:
* Normal weight = 18.5-24.9
* Overweight = 25-29.9 Obesity = BMI of 30 or greater
* A BMI of less than 18.5 is considered underweight.
* A BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy.
* A BMI of 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight.
* A BMI of 30 or more is considered obese.

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