Your health with Pharmacist Advice

Senior's Health - Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight is not only important for the way we look and feel about ourselves, it is also critical for overall health. Carrying extra weight puts excessive pressure on the heart. This means that there is a greater chance of suffering from high blood pressure and the chance of suffering from a heart attack is increased by up to 3 fold. Being overweight also predisposes you to the following health conditions:

• Stroke
• Type 2 diabetes
• Gallstones
• Arthritis
• Lack of energy throughout the day
• Difficulty with breathing during sleep (sleep apnoea)

 

Basic tips for maintaining a healthy weight

 

Diet

Eat a healthy and nutritious diet. Ensure that you include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as whole grain cereals and fibre. Avoid pre-prepared and take-away foods as these are often high in hidden saturated fats, sugar and salt.

 

Exercise

It is important to participate in regular exercise. This does not have to be strenuous; rather it needs to be consistent. Consider taking up Tai Chi or swimming as these exercises work and stretch most of the muscles in the body. If these do not interest you brisk walking for 30 minutes on most days is a cheap and easy way to exercise.

Regular exercise will help maintain a healthy weight but will also be beneficial in the prevention of heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and arthritis. It will also improve overall energy and sense of well being and is beneficial for Heart health, diabetes, osteoporosis, arthritis and energy levels.

It is important to speak to your doctor before undertaking any significant changes to your diet or exercise routine. If you are after any more information or help with losing weight speak to your local Pharmacist Advice Pharmacist.