Our physical appearance is a reflection of our state of health. Being overweight is a serious health hazard. Though obesity can run in certain families, it is also a manifestation of an unhealthy lifestyle characterized by overeating, a diet high in fats or fatty foods and sugars and a sedentary lifestyle (inadequate physical activity). When we are not able to burn up all the calories (energy value) of the food we eat, the excess energy will be stored up in certain parts of our bodies.

To determine if you need to be concerned about your shape, measure your waist at the smallest point and your hips at the widest point to get a waist/hip ratio. A healthy waist/hip ratio for men is 1.0 or less; and 0.8 or less for women.

Likewise you could calculate your body mass index (BMI). The BMI is a measurement which compares the weight of an individual to his height in the following formula:

BMI = Weight/(height  * height)  where height is measured in meters and weight is measured in kilograms.

It can also be calculated using  the following formula:

BMI =Weight/(height * height) * 703  where weight is measured in pounds and height is measured in inches.

A BMI of less than 25 indicates you are in a normal weight range for your height. But a person is considered overweight or obese when the BMI is 30 or more. Being overweight can increase the risk for conditions like heart disease, hypertension, diabetes and arthritis.

Steps to take maintain a healthy weight:

• Eat a well-balanced and varied diet which is low in fat and fast sugars but high in fruits, vegetables, fiber and lean protein. Try not to overeat.

• Add regular exercise into your weekly routine. Do 30mins a day of exercise at least 3 times a week. This will burn off extra energy. Be sure to consult your doctor before beginning any rigorous exercise program, especially if you have not done any physical activity in a long time.

Stay healthy!