It is our attitude at the beginning of a difficult task which, more than anything else, will affect its successful outcome

FAT CELLS--PART 2 OF 3: CREEPING OBESITY

Inactivity is generally the cause of "creeping obesity." St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center in New York City has estimated deaths attributable to obesity at 280,000 or more a year. Of these deaths, most likely up to 44 percent could have been prevented by exercise. Steven N. Blair, a researcher from The Cooper Institute for Aerobics

(Dallas, Texas), found in a 10-year study of 25,174 men that low fitness was a stronger predictor of mortality than was diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or smoking. 

If losing body fat is your goal, some types of aerobic activity will work better than others. Low-impact aerobic activity, such as walking, step aerobics, and aerobic dance, are great activities. Also, you can benefit from no-impact aerobics, such as swimming, bicycling, and rowing. Forty-five minutes of moderate aerobic activity five times a week combined with a nutritional food plan will help you to lose body fat.

Successful weight loss requires time, commitment, and perseverance. Many dieters are trapped in the "yo-yo" syndrome: They repeatedly lose and regain the same weight. The only permanent way to effectively lose weight is a combination of sound nutritional habits and regular exercise.

Always consult with your primary care physician before starting any weight loss program. There are specific conditions that require individualized nutritional plans. A nutritionist can help you determine your food plan goals.

Tony Chemer