This is the time of year new goals are started to improve health, whether it be mentally, physically or spiritually. The more popular goals stem around physical health, particularly weight. Weight is more than just a number on a scale. Weight has proven to be directly correlated with many health conditions and continues to progressively be an issue for America.
According to the CDC, some of the conditions caused by uncontrolled weight are increased mortality, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, sleep apnea, depression, and cancers. One way we use weight to assess an individual’s risk of these conditions is by checking a BMI (body mass index), which is evaluated annually at our office. A BMI is weight in kilograms divided by square height in meters. Here is a link where you can easily calculate your BMI:
https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi/adult_bmi/english_bmi_calculator/bmi_calculator.html
A normal BMI is 18.5-24.9. A score above 24.9 is considered overweight and a score of 30 or higher falls within the obese range.
In addition to BMI, we also assess waist circumference annually. The waist circumference goal is <40 inches for men and <35 inches for women. Waist circumference is another vital tool to screen for diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Here is a link on how to correctly measure waist circumference:
https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/index.html
To help reach your weight goals this year, physical activity (a minimum of 22 minutes per day) and adhering to a clean diet are key. A healthy weight is not just important for your New Year’s resolution, but also reduces the risk of serious health conditions. A healthy weight will help you live a longer, healthier life.
Good luck in reaching all your goals this year!