What is the difference between being overweight and being obese?
Everyone needs some body fat for energy, heat insulation, and other body functions.
Being overweight or obese are both terms for having more body fat than considered healthy. Both terms are used to identify people who are at risk from health problems related to having too much body fat, such as diabetes, kidney disease, high blood pressure and cardiovascular problems.
The difference between the two is that "obese" generally means a much higher amount of body fat than simply "overweight."
How do I know if I'm overweight or obese?
The most common way to identify if you are overweight or obese is to figure out your body mass index (BMI).
BMI is a quick and simple way to compare your weight to what is considered "normal" for an adult with your height. BMI does not measure body fat directly, and it does not account for age, sex, ethnicity, or muscle mass in adults.
BMI uses standard weight status categories that can help doctors to track weight status across populations and identify potential issues in an individual.
You can use the following calculator to measure your BMI: https://www.calculator.com.my/bmi-calculator#.Xjwj62gzaUk
Understanding the results
BMI of less than 18.5
A BMI of less than 18.5 indicates that you are underweight, so you may need to put on some weight. You are recommended to ask your doctor or a dietitian for advice.
BMI of 18.5–24.9
A BMI of 18.5-24.9 indicates that you are at a healthy weight for your height. By maintaining a healthy weight, you lower your risk of developing serious health problems.
BMI of 25–29.9
A BMI of 25-29.9 indicates that you are slightly overweight. You may be advised to lose some weight for health reasons. You are recommended to talk to your doctor or a dietitian for advice.
BMI of over 30
A BMI of over 30 indicates that you are heavily overweight. Your health may be at risk if you do not lose weight. You are recommended to talk to your doctor or a dietitian for advice.
Does it matter where the excess weight is located?
Yes. If your excess weight is mostly around your middle (apple shape), you are more likely to develop health problems than if the weight is around your hips (pear shape). The greater your waist size, the greater your health risk. To learn more, ask your healthcare provider to measure your waist.
What should I do if I am overweight or obese?
New research shows that a weight loss program should include three components to be successful — diet, exercise, and behaviour modification.
Your weight loss program may include:
· A steady weight loss of about one pound a week is the safest way to lose weight. Your doctor can refer you to a registered dietitian if you need help in planning your diet.
· Regular exercise such as brisk walking, running, swimming, biking, dancing. The amount of exercise needed to lose weight is different for everyone. Talk to your healthcare professional before you begin any new exercise program.
· Behavior modification techniques such as: Keeping a food diary of everything you eat, Shopping from a list and not shopping when you're hungry, and taking a different route if you usually pass by a tempting fast food place.
Prevention is better than cure
The battle against obesity doesn’t happen overnight, it is something gradual and the willingness to change is important.
At Vircle we believe that preventing overweight and obesity is easier than fighting them. That is why Vircle is determined to address the issue of obesity from a young age. We do this by nurturing our future generations to make good food behaviour a habit and foundation for a successful and happy life.