| 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
END
Notes to Editors:
- Angela
McComb will be available for interview on Tuesday 1 June
from 10.00am to 12.00pm.
- 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.
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