Men’s Health: Why worry about your waistline?
Monday, June 6th, 2011
All men should know their waist circumference. Why? Men are more likely than women to gain weight around the middle. A waist measurement of 40 inches or more increases risk for diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and sleep apnea.
To measure your waist:
- With a tape measure, start at your navel and wrap it completely around your waistline.
- Pull the tape measure until it fits snugly but does not push tightly into the skin.
- Make sure it’s parallel to the floor all the way around.
- Avoid holding your breath or sucking in and take the measurement.
If you’ve got some inches to lose, try these heart-healthy tips:
-Fill half of your plate with a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables.
-Make at least half your grains whole grains.
-Increase your intake of low-fat dairy products.
-Choose more seafood, beans, skinless poultry, eggs, and lean meats.
-Replace butter with healthier fats from canola or olive oil, nuts, seeds.
-Exercise at least 30 minutes per day on 5 or more days per week.
