Have you ever compared your current photos from your photos 20 years or 10 years ago? Odds are you weigh more now than before and most of us really do. Not only that you can no longer fit in your old pants with the increase in waistline but your ideal weight has increased too. Most of us think that their current weight right now is just about right. But is your happy weight, the ideal body weight for your age? Are you sure you are not over?
Is it Really Unhealthy to be Overweight?
The idea of being overweight as not being healthy is common. However, a study conducted in 2012 showed that people who are over 30 pounds their ideal weight are less likely to die early compared to those individuals with normal weight. This study has raised numerous debates and upon closer inspection, it was revealed that this study has many flaws.
In addition to that, numerous research shows that obesity leads to serious health problems even in children. The extra fat that you have will most likely cause you to experience different types of diseases such us heart conditions, increased cholesterol levels, high-blood pressure, diabetes, and so much more. These diseases that are closely linked to obesity can have long-term effects and most are life-threatening. It is said that these lifestyle conditions needs to be managed not only for several months but for a lifetime. It all boils down to the quality of life that you lead and your diet. Extreme changes in lifestyle and diet may need to be implemented to manage such conditions.
Despite these facts, a lot of us still have a hard time facing our weight. Most people are still shocked when they step on the weighing scale; and most people are in denial and try to ignore the fact that their weight is more likely over than their ideal weight.
Understanding your Ideal Weight
The key to have a healthy weight is to understand your lifestyle, to evaluate your diet preference and to commit yourself to change. Here are some general tips on how to start your ideal weight plan.
Know your Body Mass Index (BMI) and your waistline
You cannot have a measurable goal without having a baseline data. Your BMI is calculated using your height and your weight. This is a good tool to measure fat content in your body. It is also used to calculate the amount of calories that you need to take in order to get your ideal weight. BMI is not foolproof though since this will also depend on your build. Nonetheless, it is very useful for weight management.
Waist size is also a good measure to indicate if you are vulnerable to diseases. If you are a woman and your waist is over 35 inches or if you are a man with a waist of 40 inches, then you definitely need to lose weight. Aside from aesthetics, having a waistline that just right for your body type is a good indicator that you are healthy.
Don’t Set your Goals Too High
Most people obsess with ideal weight and ideal waistline, but these goals may sometimes be too high or just simply unrealistic at the moment. It is more appropriate to set your goal to 7% or 10% weight loss. Studies show that losing weight a little at a time is healthy and once you reach the 10% mark doing the next 10% is much easier.
Age Does Not Matter.
When you get older, you will lose weight with the decrease in muscle mass. Instead of building up fat, it is best to improve your lean muscle to maintain better balance and avoid falls. Take note that having healthy weight does not mean just losing that extra flab. You also need to be mindful so that your weight is just right.
