A Weighty Issue
The
Importance
of Physical
Activity
Obesity has become an epidemic in the United States. In fact, approximately
35.7% of American adults are obese. Many of the most common preventable
causes of death—such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes—
are directly linked to obesity. Being overweight or obese may be a result of
behavior, environment, metabolism, culture or genetics, and it results from an
energy imbalance caused by consuming too many calories and not expending
enough calories through physical activity. Regular physical activity is a key
component of both weight loss and weight management.
To achieve and maintain a healthy weight,
one must combine a healthful diet with
an adequate amount of regular physical
activity. Most weight loss occurs because of
decreased caloric intake; however, evidence
shows the only way to maintain weight
loss is to be engaged in regular physical
activity, according to the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention. Additionally, it is
important to note that physical activity on
its own decreases risk for both diabetes and
cardiovascular disease beyond the reduction
produced by weight loss alone.
The Calorie
Calculation
Calories provide the body with energy to perform daily
functions. To lose weight, people must consume fewer
calories than they use for energy; weight gain occurs
when people consume more calories than they use
for energy. To maintain a healthy weight, people must
balance the calories they consume with the calories they
use for energy.
One pound = 3,500 calories
Consult your physician before beginning an
exercise program, particularly if you are
overweight or have been inactive for an
extended period.
This means that to lose one pound of fat, an individual
must burn 3,500 calories more than he or she consumes.
To gain one pound, an individual must consume 3,500
calories more than he or she burns for energy.
GAINING GROUND
SM
SM
The Health Information Center: Body/Mind and companion Personal Health Guides are published by, and are the property of, Aegis, Nashville, TN. Copyright 2008 by Aegis. All rights reserved. The editorial content is not intended as a substitute
for the advice of a medical professional. Consult your physician about all health-related matters. Comments and suggestions regarding these publications may be directed to Aegis, 8 Cadillac Drive, Suite 450, Brentwood, TN, 37027.
SCRMCO 268
The Health Information Center products are now printed on 50% Recycled paper with 25% Post Consumer Fiber. Our papers are FSC certified. By choosing a
product with the FSC label, we are supporting the growth of responsible forest management worldwide. Proudly printed in the USA.
Executive Offices: Henry Ross, President & Chief Executive Officer / Kory Penzien, Vice President, Information Technology / Lori Copeland, Vice President, Finance & Administration
Creative Services: Zografia, A Design Group—Lou Everhart, Creative Director / Katherine Williams, Editor / Jessica Smith, Production Manager/Designer
268
C=32 M=100 Y=0 K=10
JANUARY 2012 issue
Post this sidethe
the
week
of:
Consequences
Dec. 24-Dec. 28
Approximately 68 percent of adults in the United States are overweight or obese.
Because being overweight can contribute to heart disease, diabetes, and even some types of cancer,
managing your weight is one of the most important things you can do for your health. The best ways to
lose weight are to limit calorie consumption and to participate in an adequate amount of physical activity.
For more information about exercise programs through the Regional Medical
Center’s HEALTHPLEX sites in Branchville, Holly Hill and Santee, visit RMC’s
Web site at www.trmchealth.org or scan the QR code with your smartphone.
For a physician referral, call the Regional Medical Center at (803) 395-2200.