Statistics show Queensland males are most at risk
We all know someone who indulges in unhealthy foods and fails to exercise regularly but is still ‘skinny’. Well, data released by Queensland Health reveals an increasing number of people are now more likely to be ‘skinny-fat’.
Skinny-fat is defined as a person who is under lean but over fat and according to the Queensland Government, more than 23 per cent of Queenslanders who are not currently overweight or obese are still at risk of being so, particularly young males.
The facts
Queensland Health Advanced Nutritionist, Mathew Dick said males aged between 18 and 30 are most likely to be at risk because of unhealthy lifestyles, behaviours and attitudes.
“Two-thirds of Queensland adults are overweight or obese, and around 30 per cent don’t even realise it – a further 23 per cent are at risk of becoming overweight or obese,” Mr Dick said.
According to Mr Dick, a person who is skinny-fat may look healthy, but internally they have the same health concerns as someone who is overweight or obese.
“They could experience high cholesterol, high blood pressure and have a high percentage of body fat – which increases their risk of chronic diseases,” he said.
How to change your lifestyle
If you’re unsure whether or not you fit into the category of skinny-fat, the easiest way to tell is to take a look at your lifestyle.
“If you sit and play video games more than you walk outside; if you eat fast food more than you cook at home; if you go out drinking every Friday night and spend the weekends hungover in bed – it may be time to start looking at your health,” Mr Dick said.
Some simple lifestyle changes you can make to improve your health include:
- Maintain a balanced diet – Try keeping to the four major food groups: carbohydrates, protein, good fat and non-starchy vegetables. Also try to avoid processed foods and man-made carbohydrates such as white bread and pasta.
- Exercise regularly – Just 30 minutes of exercise each day can improve your health, so try walking or cycling to or from work if possible.
- Relax and get enough sleep – Make sure you’re getting approximately eight hours of sleep each night and try relaxing with activities like yoga or reading if you notice you’re feeling stressed.
