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Vegetarian
Healthy Diet Program
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Body Fat DistributionBody Shape Determines Distribution of Body FatBeing overweight or having too much excess body fat is bad for our health. But total body fat is not the only health risk - body fat distribution is also significant. This is why body shape is important. Apples and Pears and Fat DistributionAs far as fat distribution is concerned, there are two basic body shapes: "apples" and "pears". Apple-shape people carry most of their excess body fat around their abdomen and middle, surrounding internal organs, such as the heart. That's why apple shapes have a higher risk of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and gall bladder disease. While pear-shape people carry their excess fat on their hips and thighs. Pear-shapes do not seem to have as high a risk of developing the above conditions as "apples" do. Are You an Apple or Pear Shape - Waist Hip RatioTo determine your body shape and fat distribution, do the following:
Waist-Hip Measurements
If you are an apple-shape with an above-average waist-hip ratio, consider taking dietary advice and modifying your eating habits. Also, talk to a fitness instructor about increasing your level of physical activity. Waist Circumference - Another Guide to Fat DistributionRegardless of your waist-hip ratio, measuring your waist circumference provides an independent prediction of risk regarding fat distribution. Waist Circumference - Health RisksA high waist circumference is associated with an increased risk for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease in people with a BMI between 25 and 34.9. Measuring Your Waist CircumferenceMeasure your waist without holding the tape too tightly (or too loosely). As a rough guide, your waist is the narrowest part of your trunk, or approximately 1 inch above your belly button. Waist Circumference - Healthy and UnhealthyWomen
Men
Sources:Includes information from National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, and American Dietetics Association. Vegetarian Healthy Diet Program |
Vegetarian Diet InformationVegetarianism is a healthy option and vegetarian
diets can be perfectly healthy eating plans but care should be taken to
ensure optimum nutrition. So, whether following an ovo-lacto or other
type of vegetarian food plan, or vegan diet, for a healthy body and weight
make it a balanced eating plan and take regular exercise. Always consult
a doctor before beginning a weight loss diet or new fitness routine.
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