In my last column I have a BMI (Body MButt Mendex) is not a measure of health. So what factors define health if BMI is not?
People generally think that health means feeling good, having the energy of life you expect, and having no pain or discomfort. One way health professionals define health is “metabolic fitness.”
Metabolism is the sum of all biochemical reactions and processes in the body that keep the human body alive. One is defined as being metabolically healthy when blood pressure, blood sugar and blood fat are normal. Blood fat contains blood triglycerides (the end product of fat digestion) and HDL cholesterol (the “good cholesterol” that cleans the arteries). Another factor in the definition of metabolic health is waist circumference. This should be less than 35 inches for women and less than 40 inches for men.
These measurements are Disease risk, Diabetes, heart disease, stroke, kidney disease. Let’s clarify what “risk” means. This does not mean that you will certainly get these illnesses. This means that you have a greater chance than someone who does not have these risk factors.
What if I have these risk factors? The good news is that it’s a simple thing that we all know is good for us. Eat a colorful diet that contains plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, low-fat dairy products (if not lactose intolerant), and healthy oils such as beans, nuts, and olive oil. Exercise most days. This is as easy as walking actively for 30-40 minutes. Get a good night’s sleep and do what you can to minimize the stress of your life. Find a healthcare provider to connect with to help you stay as healthy as possible.
I would like to answer your readers’ questions in a future column. Please email us at ellen@nutrition-coach.com.
Ellen Grovsky is a resident, author, registered dietitian and dietitian coach at Key Biscayne. Her work focuses on helping people explore and strengthen their relationship with food using a “Health At Every Size” approach. She is also involved in the island community in KBCF’s Women’s Giving Circle. For more information, please visit nutrition-coach.com.
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