Obesity
Obesity is a major health problem in Ireland. Did you know:
- Nearly two thirds of Irish people are overweight or obese
- The Growing Up in Ireland study found that 20% of nine year old were overweight in 2011 with 7% of this age group being obese
- There are many health risks associated with being obese. heart disease, cancer, diabetes and mental health problems.
- Obesity costs us over one billion euros per year
The launch if the obesity policy aims to achieve a normal weight for most individuals through healthy eating and exercise. The introduction of calorie posting legislation will also help. The government hope to introduce a sugar, sweet and drink levy as part of the 2017 budget.
How do I know if I am overweight or obese?
To determine whether you are overweight or obese you need to measure you weight (in kilogrammes) and height (in metres). When you have these measurement s you can work out your body mass index (BMI) by using the following equation
Weight
Height x Height
For example a 70kg lady who is 1.68 metres has a BMI of 24kg/m2
If your BMI is greater than 25kg/m2 you are overweight and over 30kg/m2you are obese.
To reduce weight you need to reduce you calorie intake and increase your exercise.
At Heart 2 Heart we can prescribe a specific programme for you to help with weight management.
Programmes take place on:
- Mondays at 2.30pm, 4pm and 5.30pm in Mount Merrion Community Centre
- Tuesdays10.30am and Thursdays 2pm in UCD Sport
- Wednesdays 2pm in Killashee Leisure Centre and 7pm in Kilcullen Business Campus.
Karen Cradock, B.Physio, MSc Specialist Cardiac Physiotherapist,, Heart 2 Heart Cardiac Physiotherapy, www.h2hcardiacphysio.com, 045 484000, info@h2hcardiacphysio.com.