What is Weight Management?

Weight management involves being mindful of eating habits and daily activity. Both are important in weight management. To maintain your weight you must balance the energy you take in (eat from food) to the energy that used (in physical daily activity).  Check out my podcast for more on weight management! 

image1

More than one third of U.S. adults are obese. Weight gain occurs when you consume more calories than your body uses. Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight will help you prevent and control many diseases and conditions. The key is “Finding a Balance” in your lifestyle that includes healthy eating and regular physical activity.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Click here for information on “Finding a Balance”.

eat-right-and-be-active-new-infographic

Generally speaking the healthy weight category is what you should strive for. Check out my YouTube video to learn about about figuring out what weight range you are in. 

img_5967

What is recommended?

MyPlate recommendations and the CDC healthy eating recommendationsusda_myplate_green-svg

  • Eat 5 fruits & vegetables daily
  • Consume 3 servings of dairy
  • Choose whole grains
  • Eat meat with less fat
  • Use less salt
  • Drink more water
  • Choose less processed food
  • Eat smaller portions

Be active! CDC recommends daily activity as follows:

  • 30-60 minutes a day (for 3-5 days out of the week)  
  • Moderate-intensity aerobic activity consisting of walking fast, jogging, biking, swimming, dancing, intense housework, playing sports outside with family/friends or with a pet.
  • The key is to stay active and try to use as much muscle groups as you can (arms, legs, back, hips, shoulder etc.)
  • Talk to your medical provider prior to starting an exercise to determine if you have any limitations that may restrict you from doing a certain activity.

As a disclaimer; this information is not intended to be used as medical advice or to treat disease. Recommendations may be different for individuals with chronic illness. Speak to your medical provider if you have additional questions.

Leave a comment