The costs of obesity are projected to soon hit $100 billion per year in the United States. At least one out of every two people in America is overweight. Needless to say, weight management is a challenge for many.
There is no magic cure or easy solution to problems with weight control, as many diet companies and makers of quick weight loss formulas and pills would like us to believe. Weight management done incorrectly can even aggravate health risks or create new ones.
Obesity is second only to smoking as a risk factor for causing disease. It is associated with significant morbidity (sickness) and mortality (death). Overweight people are three times more likely to develop hypertension and diabetes. Excess body fat increases the risk of several cancers, such as cancer of the colon, breast, rectum, and gall bladder. Being overweight also increases your chances of having arthritis, gall bladder disease, breathing difficulties, and joint problems.
A permanent lifestyle modification plan that includes an emphasis on nutrition, exercise, and behavior is the healthiest way to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Even a small weight loss (10 or 20 pounds) can improve your health -decreasing blood pressure and lowering cholesterol.
St. Vincent's Wellness Services offers worksite weight management programs taught by registered dietitians and behaviorists. For a minimum class size of 10 individuals, we will bring our weight management program to your worksite. For additional information, please call (205) 930-2453.