Weight Wise campaign says size really does matter

In Northern Ireland, more than three out of five men are either overweight or obese and this month the Weight Wise campaign, supported by the Health Promotion Agency for Northern Ireland (HPA), aims to raise awareness of the health risks of that ‘spare tyre’ in men, under the slogan ‘Size matters’.

Angela McComb, HPA’s nutrition manager said: “A man’s waist size is indeed a vital statistic. Having a waist measurement of over 37” (94cm) increases the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and some cancers and this risk is even greater in men with a waistline over 40” (102cm). A fact that is not widely known is that loosing even a relatively small amount of weight (approximately 1-1½ stones (5-10kg) can help to reduce the risk of many of these problems.”

The ‘Size matters’ campaign aims to raise awareness of the problem and provide practical help and advice at a local level. Throughout June, dietitians will be promoting the following messages to men around Northern Ireland:

• Watch your waist size; it’s time to deflate those spare tyres to reduce your health risk.
• Small changes can lead to big benefits. Choosing lower fat varieties of favourite foods, or eating smaller portions of some foods, can save on calories and help control your weight.
• Make starchy foods part of meals. Go for wholegrain breads, cereals, rice and pasta, and potatoes.
• Super size your vegetables and fruit; aim to have five or more portions a day of a variety of vegetables, salads and fruits. Include these as snacks and with meals.
• Downsize high-calorie food and drinks, and limit fast food. Go easy on cakes, biscuits and sugary drinks.
• Eat regular, balanced meals, starting with breakfast, such as cereals with milk, and fruit.
• Be active, more often; ideally every day to burn off those extra calories and to keep healthy, fit and trim.
• Think long term, not quick fix. Make gradual changes to your diet and lifestyle that you can really stick to.

Men who are concerned about their weight and want to consult a dietitian should ask their local GP for a referral. More practical advice on weight management is available on www.bdaweightwise.com

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Notes to Editors:

1. Angela McComb will be available for interview on Tuesday 1 June from 10.00am to 12.00pm.
2. Weight Wise is a UK-wide campaign promoted by the British Dietetic Association and supported by Kellogg’s, Sainsbury’s, Weight Watchers, The British Potato Council and Slimming World.

For more information on this release contact Jenny Dougan on 028 9031 1611 or 028 9031 1514.