Shed your weight from ‘08
AMA Queensland is urging all Queenslanders to be proactive with their health as Healthy Weight Week kicks off around the country.
AMA Queensland President Dr Chris Davis said now was a great time to start a new health and fitness regime and together, Queenslanders could shed the weight from ‘08 and feel fine in ‘09.
“Adding physical activity into your daily routine, fresh fruit and vegetables into your diet and reducing your alcohol intake are the easiest ways to get started,” Dr Davis said.
“It’s all about leaving the silly season behind and achieving balance - balance the energy in through what you eat and energy out through the physical activity you do.
“If you get the balance right you will be on your way to a healthier weight, improved physical and mental health, and higher energy levels,” he said.
Dr Davis said it was imperative all Queenslanders used the New Year as a fresh start to sincerely heed the warnings about overweight and obesity.
“As Queenslanders we are in poor shape - literally - with more than half of all adults and one in five children aged 5-17 overweight or obese,” he said.
“Overweight and obesity can lead to increased risk of breast and colorectal cancer, coronary heart disease, osteoarthritis, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and a generally reduced state of wellbeing.
“As individuals we are doing our health a real disservice and as parents we are putting the health of our children at risk,” he said.
Dr Davis said having a chat with your local GP was also a great way to kick-start a lifestyle change.
“Your GP can offer you great advice on how to go about changing your diet and incorporating more physical activity into your life.
“They can also answer any questions or concerns about your specific health needs,” he said.
“Overweight and obesity are preventable, let’s work together to make them a thing of the past.”
