Setting personal appearance

aside (for those who don't care what they look like), what does excess

weight do to our health (mentioned earlier)? Men with a body fat percentage

over 25 percent are at health risk, as are women with body fat percentage

over 35 percent. A fitness professional can determine your percentage

of body fat. Another indicator of risk assessment is Waist to Hip Ratio.

Simply divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement. Risk indicators

are over .95 for men and .85 for women.

Control and maintenance of

your weight and body fat is achieved through a combination of proper exercise

and diet.

The concept is simple -

expend more calories than you take in. The commitment is not easy,

but is doable.

A few basic suggestions for

improving your body fat composition include:

> Balanced intake of protein,

carbohydrates and fat (with doctor's approval). The balance of carbohydrates,

protein and fat is different for different people and at different stages

of their weight management programs.

> Consume your balanced

nutritional intake over five to six meals, rather than two to three.

> Start with a definite

plan that you can measure and monitor.

> Select enjoyable activities.

> Surround yourself with

positive influence.

> Be patient. Weight gain

did not appear overnight, nor will it be corrected overnight.

All of this requires a lifestyle

adjustment. There is no quick fix. You will feel better, have more energy

and more self-esteem - all good things .

If you need personalized help,

consult a health care or fitness professional.

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