Many of us have put our own personal health on hold over the past year. As we get back on track with our diet and exercise, it is important to remember these key facts:

Obesity is linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, sleep apnea, and type 2 DM.

Obesity is defined as Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 30. Your BMI is a calculation of body fat based on height and weight.

• If your BMI is greater than 30, you may qualify for medical treatment in addition to lifestyle modifications
• Surgery (ie gastric bypass) is recommended for BMI greater than 40, especially with other comorbidities are present (including complications of heart disease and diabetes)
• What diet is best? Programs that focus on long term healthy, balanced eating habits- rather than short term solutions- are most effective. Everything in moderation.
• The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate intensity cardiac physical activity per week.
• Low impact exercise alternatives include walking, elliptical, swimming, or rowing.