Do You Measure Up?
The Australian Government’s Measure Up campaign is back on our television screens. The campaign, which was first launched in 2008, highlights the importance of people’s waist measurement as a risk factor for chronic disease and how people can lower their risk (and waist size) through healthy eating and being active.
The campaign tells us that a waist measurement of more than 94cm for men and 80cm for women is a risk factor for chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and some cancers.
For many people, the risk associated with these waist measurements will come as a shock, and I have had many clients question me about their validity. However, they are not to be ignored – no matter what your height or build, an increased waist measurement could mean you’re at risk of chronic disease.
It is important to note that some people will naturally carry more weight around their mid section than others and these people may struggle to get their waist measurement under the risk range. But don’t stress about the numbers. The important thing to remember is to lower your risk of chronic disease (as much as possible) by living a healthy and active lifestyle.
You can visit the Measure Up website to find out more about the campaign and read some helpful information on exercise and healthy eating.