Move Your Body! 

August 17, 2022

Maintaining a healthy weight is important to good health. According to Health Canada’s Canadian Guidelines for Body Weight Classifications in Adults, there are two common measures used to identify the health risks associated with body weight in individuals – the Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference.

BMI is a height to weight ratio calculator that is used as an indicator of health risk associated with being underweight or overweight, while waist circumference is used as an indicator of health risk associated with excess abdominal fat. The BMI does not directly measure body fat, but it is a useful tool in gauging a person’s health risks when they are either under or overweight.

For adults, the BMI should fall between 18.5 to 24.9. Waist circumference for men should be less than 40 inches (102 cm) and for women, less than 35 inches (88 cm)

There are many types of health problems associated with being overweight. They include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, stroke, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea and breathing problems (such as asthma), gallbladder disease, many types of cancer, low quality of life, mental illness (depression, anxiety), chronic body pain and difficulty with physical functioning.

Physical activity and diet are two ways of controlling weight gain. Increase physical activity with the goal of accumulating 30-60 minutes/day of moderate-intensity, dynamic exercise four to seven days/week in addition to the routine activities of daily living.

Individuals should try to consume a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, whole grain foods rich in dietary fiber, protein from plant sources that are low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Size portions should also be kept in mind.

There is no “quick-fix” to losing weight. Diet pills or medication for weight loss are not effective as a replacement to diet and exercise. They must be used in conjunction to lifestyle changes and even then, are only moderately effective.

Fad diets are typically restrictive and are not sustainable in the long term because of the extreme measures they require. They may work in the short term but once someone stops using the diet, they will likely rebound and gain back weight that was lost and, in some cases, may gain more weight.

If you’re concerned about your weight and are ready to make changes to your lifestyle, book a consultation with our pharmacy team. They’ll guide and support you every step of the way. Book now

The content on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment, and before undertaking a new health-care regimen.