Cut your weight to cut your consequences

The worldwide rate of obesity has reached critical proportions. In South Africa, over 60% of South African women and 30% of men are overweight or obese.

It’s projected that the health of about 167 million people globally will be affected this year because they are overweight or obese. The consequences of this global health crisis are dire.

Health risks of excess weight

At a cost to South Africa’s health system of an estimated R33 billion a year, excess weight increases your risk for:

Heart disease:
The excess weight strains your heart.

Stroke:
Excess weight increases your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure (hypertension). These conditions all increase your stroke risk.

Diabetes:
Excess weight can lead to insulin resistance, affecting your blood sugar levels.

High blood pressure:
Your heart is forced to pump harder when you’re overweight.

Musculoskeletal disorders:
Excess weight places strain on joints and muscles, impacting your ability to move around and carry out everyday activities.

Certain cancers:
Fat cells in the body can trigger the development of cancer cells. This increases your risk for certain cancers, including breast, colon, and liver cancer.

Steps to achieving a healthy weight

The key to achieving a healthy weight is striking a balance between the number of kilojoules (energy) you consume through food and drink and the number of kilojoules you expend through daily activities, like exercise.

These tips will help put you on the right path, but you should consult your healthcare practitioner for guidance about following healthier lifestyle habits:

Cut back on saturated fats, such as butter, processed foods and fatty meats
Instead, include unsaturated fats found in olive oil, nuts and avocados
Eat more fruit and vegetables, whole grains and legumes (e.g. beans, lentils and peas)
Avoid sugary drinks, sweets, chocolates and baked goods such as doughnuts and koeksisters
Drink more water
Get enough good-quality sleep
Manage stress, perhaps by journalling, meditating or talking to a confidante
Move more – aim for at least 30 minutes a day through cycling, walking, swimming, yoga, dancing or Pilates

AECI Medical Aid Society offers a Weight Management Programme to qualifying beneficiaries with a high body mass index (BMI). This personalised, 12-week exercise-based programme provides you with professional support through your weight loss journey. Please call 0860 106 155 or refer to your Member Guide for more details on this benefit.

The more overweight you become, the greater your risk for serious health complications. With small changes now and commitment, you can avoid big health problems later.

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