Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight isn't just about a "diet" or "program". It is part of an ongoing lifestyle that you can adopt now and stay with for years to come. A healthy weight contributes to good health now and as you age.
Research has shown that as weight increases to reach the levels referred to as "overweight" and "obesity,"* the risks for the following conditions also increases:
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The two leading causes of kidney disease:
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Type 2 diabetes
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As well as the following:
- Coronary heart disease
- Cancers (endometrial, breast, and colon)
- Dyslipidemia (for example, high total cholesterol or high levels of triglycerides)
- Stroke
- Liver and Gallbladder disease
- Sleep apnea and respiratory problems
- Osteoarthritis (a degeneration of cartilage and its underlying bone within a joint)
- Gynecological problems (abnormal menses, infertility)
*Overweight is defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher; obesity is defined as a BMI of 30 or higher.
- Source Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
There are many diet and nutrition resources available.
Click here for CDC's information and resources on these topics:
- Assessing weight
- Balancing calories
- Preventing weight gain
- Losing weight
- Health eating for a healthy weight
- Tips for Parents
And more...
