Weight – thin doesn’t always equal healthy

We all know that carrying excess weight is bad for you and increases your risk of developing a number of diseases, which is why many people assume that being thin equals being healthy.

However, being thin doesn’t always guarantee good health. Underneath a thin frame could be any number of health problems that an overweight person could have, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes. 

People come in different shapes and sizes. So, no matter what a person’s size is, the most important thing is to have a healthy lifestyle, which can be achieved by:

1. Having regular check ups

Health problems aren’t always visible so it’s important to get regular medical check-ups, especially as you get older. Make sure you get things like regular blood pressure checks, smear tests, skin checks, and as you get older (or if you have any concerns), things like cholesterol checks, mammograms and prostate checks.

2. Eating a balanced diet

Eating unhealthy food isn’t good for anyone. No matter your size, if you eat an unhealthy diet high in things like saturated and trans fats, sodium, processed meat and refined carbohydrates, you increase the risk of developing health conditions. Eating a healthy, balanced diet is key to helping you stay healthy.

3. Exercising regularly

Keeping active can help with weight management, but it also helps you to combat health conditions and disease, boost your immune system and energy levels, improve your mood,  and to sleep better, to name just a few benefits.

4. Quitting smoking

Smoking causes the premature death of about 4,700 New Zealanders every year. It not only damages your health, but also those around you who inhale second-hand smoke. So now is the time to quit smoking.

5. Cutting back on alcohol

Cutting back on alcohol will do wonders for your health (and your wallet). Find out more about alcohol, its effects on your health, the harm it can cause, and whether your drinking is okay.

References