NASHVILLE – Over the past few years, it has become clear that weight is an important health issue. Being overweight is a risk factor for health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and triglycerides, arthritis, gall bladder disease, gynecologic problems, some cancers, and even lung problems. Over 60 percent of Americans are overweight or obese.
The good news is that there are many benefits of losing even a moderate amount of weight. Losing 5 to 15 percent of total body weight can lower an individual’s chances for developing heart disease or having a stroke because weight loss may improve blood pressure, triglyceride and cholesterol levels. Weight loss of 10 to 15 pounds is likely to slow the development of, and halt the symptoms associated with knee osteoarthritis. Weight loss of 5 to 10 percent of total body weight can raise HDL cholesterol. Overweight or obese people can lower their risk for developing type 2 diabetes by losing weight and increasing physical activity
A healthy weight is not the same for everyone. A person’s weight is influenced by several factors, including genetics, physical activity, and diet. There is no ideal body size, shape or weight that every individual should strive to achieve. A Body Mass Index above 25 is less healthy for most people, but it is still possible to be healthy above the “healthy weight range.” A healthy lifestyle can improve health risks, regardless of weight status.
The Reshape Yourself program is a fifteen week healthy weight program that targets behavior changes to help achieve and maintain a healthy body. Reshape Yourself teaches participants that even small changes in lifestyle can add up to big results, and that building on small successes is the key to change. The program emphasizes a three-part approach to weight management: choosing a sensible, balanced diet that fits individual lifestyles; engaging in regular, enjoyable physical activity; and making long-term diet-related behavior changes. The Reshape Yourself program will be offered on Mondays at noon at the Howard County Extension Homemaker Educational Center in Nashville. The program will begin Mon., Jan. 25. A one-time registration fee of $15 will be charged to cover program supplies.
Bring your lunch and plan to learn how to start improving your life today. Call the Howard County Extension Office at 870-845-7517 for more information or to register for the program. Please register by Jan. 21. The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture and offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
