Experts say healthy living is always in style, and shouldn’t just be a New Years’ Resolution. Nutritionists and personal trainers say the common excuse for not exercising is that people don’t have enough time. The health risks for being obese are high.
“Being obese increases health risk factors. Research shows it increases the risk for diabetes, heart disease which includes high cholesterol, high blood pressure,” said Bloomington Hospital Registered Dietician Samantha Schaefer. “People have problems with sleep apnea or respiratory problems, also, gall bladder disease and even some sorts of cancer. The good news is that studies are showing about 5-10% reduction in weight can actually reduce the risk factors.”
Research suggests adults should aim for 150 minutes of activity per week, with two days of strength training. Children need 60 minutes of activity per week. Schaefer says approximately, 66% of the adult U.S. population is overweight or obese, and nearly one in five people ages two to 19 are overweight, and exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous. Schaefer adds being active is the other half of the equation.
