Understanding the rising concern of obesity in Australia is important. The medical world generally defines ‘overweight’ as a condition in which a person’s weight is 10 to 20 percent higher than ‘normal’, as defined by a body mass index (BMI) of 25 to 30.
‘Obesity’ is defined as a condition in which a person’s weight is 20 percent or more above ‘normal’ weight, or has a BMI of 30 or more.
Being at an unhealthy weight increases an individual’s risk of developing many serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer. Fortunately, obesity is reversible with close monitoring of nutrition and appropriate exercise. In addition, an individual’s genetic makeup can influence how his/her body utilizes energy and nutrients, responds to exercise and medications, and affects the risk of developing certain health conditions.
