Almost half of SA women are obese – study

South African women have the highest obesity rate (42%) in sub-Saharan Africa, according to a recent study.

About 14% of men and almost nine percent of SA children are also considered obese, the study shows.

Topping the list of obese nations is Egypt at 35%, while the lowest rates are in Bangladesh and Vietnam at 1% of adults. South Africa has an average 30% obesity rate among adults (10-million).

The study, by the University of Washington, USA, the most comprehensive research on global obesity to date, found that just over 30% of the world’s adult population are either obese or overweight leading to widespread health problems and millions of premature deaths.

“Globally, more than two billion children and adults suffer from health problems related to being overweight or obese and an increasing percentage of people die from these health conditions,” said the study.

“In sub-Saharan Africa, the highest obesity rates (42%) are seen among South African women,” it added.

Overweight is defined as having body mass index (BMI) or weight to height ratio greater than or equal to 25 and lower than 30 while obese is defined as having a BMI equal to or greater than 30.

Research shows that obesity contributes to health risks such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, osteoarthritis and chronic kidney disease. If left unchecked, obesity may lead to a decline in life expectancy.

SA health and wellness expert, Vanessa Ascencao, says all South Africans should review their lifestyles and diets and follow a plan aimed at good health. “Follow a diet rich in fruit, vegetables and lean protein, choose quality health supplements, eliminate toxins, sugar and processed foods,” she said.

To stay in shape, Ascencao says in addition to a healthy lifestyle, green tea has shown to help suppress hunger, support weight loss and increase satiety. In particular, the green tea extract Origine 8 delivers the benefits of up to 25 cups of green tea and has 12-times greater absorption than other green tea extracts with 24-hour bio-availability.

Ascencao suggests these tips for great health and to get into shape:

• Eat a well-balanced diet and pursue a healthy lifestyle
• Start the day with a nourishing breakfast to help keep blood sugar levels balanced
• Do not overeat. Aim for three well-balanced meals a day
• Increase intake of low GL fruit, vegetables, healthy fats like seeds, nuts, avos and natural whole foods
• Avoid fried, salty or sugar-loaded foods, coffee, tea and carbonated soft drinks
• Drink lots of water and exercise regularly
• Choose quality health supplements like Origine 8 green tea extract and BetterYou DLux Vitamin D Oral Spray, both of which may help boost health and aid weight loss.

 

Origine 8 is 100% natural, free from GMO’s, soya, gluten and sugar and is available at leading health stores, pharmacies, Wellness Warehouse and Dis-Chem.

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