Why Knowing Your Body Mass Index Can Help You Fight Diabetes

[Guest guest]

This is how staggering the rise of obesity has become: according to the Surgeon

General's office, the number of obese or overweight adults in this country is

50% higher than it was just a decade ago. Recent studies have projected that 1/3

of the children born in 2000 will develop Type 2 Diabetes, which was once

commonly referred to as adult-onset diabetes and is primarily driven by

excessive weight.

And perhaps most unsettling of all: over the last ten years the number of deaths

directly related to obesity-inspired diseased has increased by 33%.

Obesity contributes to diabetes, heart disease, and strokes. Diabetes leads to

an increased risk of heart disease, blindness, limb amputation, and kidney

problems. The close relationship between excessive weight and diabetes is

undeniable. Which is why it's so important for those who are either pre-diabetes

or have been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes to monitor their body mass index.

What is your body mass index (BMI)? It's an easily calculated number which tells

you the percentage of your of body weight that consists of fat. Although this

number is not 100% on-the-money perfect, especially when the calculation is

based solely on height and weight, it's a good ball park figure. Certainly good

enough to use as a guide if you're trying to lose weight. Other factors that are

normally taken into consideration are sex and age.

The most accurate way to determine your body mass index is by working with your

doctor. Not only can he offer you some additional insights into the meaning of

the number, he can advise you on how best to start losing weight.