Preventing Weight Loss/Gain

Is there such a thing as too thin?

     Yes, there is. Being underweight is just as much of a problem as being overweight as far as the body is concerned. An underweight person may be malnourished, meaning not having enough protein, carbs, fat, vitamins and minerals to make them healthy. Being underweight can cause heart disease, heart attack and death. People who are underweight also do not have a strong immune system and have a difficult time fighting illness, can be subject to broken bones if they fall, and can have weakness. People at risk for this are those who do not get to eat enough food or may suffer from an eating disorder. 

Overweight and Obesity, are they the same?

     In the big picture, yes they are. Being overweight can be the beginning of being obese if steps are not taken to prevent it. Just being overweight can cause self image issues, depression and the feeling that others are judging you. I know that feeling, and it does not feel good! Being overweight can also be the beginning of hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, heart disease and even cancer. Obesity is more scary because visceral fat attaches to the organs causing central obesity and it release more fatty acids into the blood than other types of fat tissue, which can cause metabolic syndrome, also known as insulin resistance. "Nearly all cases of overweight and obesity, including abdominal obesity, are due to excess calorific intake (overeating) combined with a sedentary lifestyle. In the United States, around one-third of the adult population is obese. Obesity greatly increases the risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease." (Standen, & Anderson, 2013). The most common way to treat being overweight and obesity is diet and exercise resulting in weight loss and, in some cases, medications.  

** This BMI chart is for the average person, it is not intended for use by those who are bodybuilders. **

Do you need help?

Reference the above BMI chart and find where you are. If you need assistance with weight loss, please consult your physician first. As I am a Certified Health Coach, I can help you attain your weight loss goals and show you how to maintain a healthy weight. For more information, you may contact me or visit my website: http://optimallife.tsfl.com. 

References: 
Sizer, F. & Whitney, E. (2013).  Nutrition: Concepts and Controversies (13th ed.).  Mason, OH: Cengage Learning

Standen, C. P., & Anderson, J. P. (2013). Metabolic syndrome. Magill’S Medical Guide (Online Edition), 

Overweight, Underweight photo courtesy of  http://www.emaxhealth.com/11400/being-too-thin-more-deadly-being-too-fat

BMI chart from tsfl.com