BECKELY -
West Virginians tipping the scales. A recent study by the Department of Health and Human Resources says West Virginians are the 6th obese state in the nation!
While that number is better than last years, the DHHR says West Virginians aren't getting fitter.
Other states just have surpassed the Mountain State with unhealthy habitats.
Obesity is truly a problem that is plaguing so many of us in the Mountain State.
This is a problem that will not change over night... But there are a few simple and easy changes you can make to your everyday lifestyle to tip the scales in the right direction.
I'm too tried! I just don't have time! Fast food is more convenient!
These are all Common excuses we use in our lives to justify unhealthy choices
According to the Department of Health and Human Resources 31% of men and women are obese in the mountain state.
As a result of poor choices, West Virginias are packing on the pounds and that extra weight has some damaging consequences.
[CG :cg1-LWR3\Paul Bailey\Rehab Services Raleigh General Hospital]
"All types of evidence is correlating your obesity with hypertension, with an incase in diabetes, with an increase of diabetes, certain types of cancer rates are elevated," Director of Raleigh General Hospitals Rehabilitation Services Paul Bailey said.
Changing unhealthy habitats is a very difficult thing to do.
"Eighty-five percent of people who start their diet January 1 are done by January 15th," Executive Chef for Raleigh General Hospital Kris Siuta said.
So many people find themselves on the diet and exercise roller coaster. Experts say when weight loss becomes a matter of live or death a strict diet and exercise plan is not the way to go. Instead, the best way to trim the fat is by making simple changes in your everyday life.
"I'm not going to take the elevator, I'm going to take the steps. I'm going to go out during lunch and walk for 15 minutes. I am going to go and find something to do throughout the day" Bailey said.
Bailey said parking at distance parking spots and walking to your destination is a good way to get in some cardio.
"Ten minutes here, 5 minutes there, 6 minutes here, it all adds up," Bailey continued.
Another key to a healthy lifestyle is your daily food choices.
For people on the go, fast-food many seem like the only option.
But experts are not buying it!
"How easy is an apple? You don't even have to unwrap it how convenient is an orange? How convenient is fresh cup up fruit trays," Siuta said.
Experts say start small, swap an apple for a bag of chips or try a salad instead of a sandwich.
"What you put into your mouth and what you decide to eat on a daily basis is going to determine how you are going to feel," Siuta said.
Experts agree that small changes make a big difference and when it is your life at stake you've got a lot to loose.
"Being over weight and being obese detracts from your quality of life and your longevity. You're not going to life as long if you are overweight," Bailey said.
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