South Africa Obesity Statistics Show Alarming Increases In Weight
The obesity statistics in South Africa are alarming, indicating that South Africans are now as much at risk than Americans. With obesity being a chronic condition much like diabetes, it is imperative that South Africans take the necessary steps to address their weight management.
Although there are various reasons for obesity, the main cause is due to an imbalance between the energy usage and intake. If more energy is taken in, in the form of calories, than what is used, weight gain can lead to obesity over the long term. Obesity is prevalent where the body mass index (BMI) is more than 30 kg per square metre and severe obesity is noticeable where the person shows 35 kg for every square metre and more.
The percentage of South African men being overweight or obese was 29% and in women the percentage was over 55% as indicated in the 1998 SADHS study, published in 2002. Age, gender, urban and rural demographics, lifestyle and nutrition factors play a role. Black women, according to the South African obesity statistics, are amongst the groups with the highest rates of obesity. Age related factors must also be considered and seem to play an important role, especially in people over 40 years of age. In general, as many as 40% of women in South Africa struggle with weight problems.
The South African Police force is also suffering from the effects of obesity. Watch this video for some shocking trusths about obesit in South Africa:
Causes For Weight Gain
Not only over eating, but also improper nutrition and even starvation are amongst the reasons for the rise in obesity levels in Africa. The westernisation of African people has also influenced the way we eat. Then there’s the factor of activity. By combining the increase usage of technology and the consumption of fast and processed foods, there is little to wonder about when looking at the obesitystatistics of SouthAfrica.
The problem of obesity has also shifted from adulthood to children who carry the weight problems through to adulthood due to factors such as tuck shops at schools selling unhealthy snacks and children being less active than before.
The World Health Organisation has identified several health risks associated with obesity including breathing problems, colon cancers, high blood pressure, strokes, heart failures, organ failures, bone problems, back problems, and diabetes. Studies have also shown a definite link between obesity and diabetes 2.
Herbalife Products For Weight Control
Although little can be done about hectic lifestyles, some compromise is required. One needs to eat breakfast and eat smaller, but more regular meals, sleep between 6 and 12 hours a day, participate in physical activities often, drink enough water, and ensure proper healthy eating plans.
With the Herbalife range of products for weight control, the chances of skipping meals doesn’t have to be a problem. Herbalife has developed a whole range of delicious nutritional shakes which can replace meals and also protein powders to add to the shakes for ensuring proper protein intake.
In addition, vitamin and mineral supplementation is required because many of the foods eaten lack such, while the fibre supplements ensure proper digestion and assistance in detoxification.
Don’t become part of the obesity statistics in South Africa. Take pro-active steps to ensure a proper balance in energy intake and expenditure with the Herbalife range of products. Click to view the products to help you regain weight control or simply contact us today for further information about the importance of leading a healthy and happy life.
