Aug
22
Women, Control Your Waist Size and You May Control Your Risk for Stroke
Filed Under DuPage Medical Group News
A recent study found that having a larger waist circumference directly correlates with an increased risk for stroke as well as heart disease and peripheral vascular disease. In fact, stroke risk in women was almost twice as high as the rate for men in the 35 -54 age range. Since women tend to gain weight initially in their hips and thighs, by the time they have gained around the waist, they may have reached an advanced condition of overall obesity which increases their risk of other health problems.
Controlling your waist size means making better choices in selecting what you eat and possibly more important is daily exercise. Dr. Brian O’Leary, DuPage Medical Group’s Internist, was quoted in Naperville Magazine, “the number one thing is exercise, even more than diet.” He recommends an hour of exercise five times a week - even just walking.
Mothers and fathers also need to realize that it’s not just their own health that is affected by their weight, but their children’s health as well. Children have a much greater risk of being overweight if one parent is overweight. Dr. O’Leary believes that kids are trained to be very active mentally, but passive physically. “I can’t overemphasize how important it is to train ourselves that our bodies need to move, ” O’Leary states. “We are built to move, and if we don’t we will suffer those long-term health consequences.”
This study confirms the need to find a healthier lifestyle - a lifestyle that includes a balanced diet with more fresh foods rather then processed, proper proportioned meals, no smoking, and regular exercise.
Dr. Brian O’Leary practices at 1020 E. Ogden Ave., Suite 115 Naperville, IL 60563. Please call 630.717.8707 to make an appointment.