Why Love Handles and a Paunch Are Bad News

Love handles and a big paunch are now worse than plain old obesity.

The Mayo Clinic did an intensive study and found that waist weight ratio is more dangerous than previously thought.  The level of risk attributed to normal weight but central obesity appears to be similar to that of smoking a pack a day. Those with large bellies are twice as likely to die prematurely compared to those with smaller waistlines.  This study applied to those who were NOT obese, nor overweight.  Waist  circumference is more important than weight (pounds).  The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute says the risks for disease greatly increase when waist circumference is more than 40 inches for men and more than 35 inches for women.  The measurement should be taken just above the hip bone.  No matter where your fat is, EXERCISE receives the crown as king of fat loss for all types of fat.  No surprise there.  I once had a girlfriend tell me that exercise does NOT matter--it's what you put into your mouth.  That not only offended me but was UNTRUE.  Exercise can tone and reduce fat and can strengthen the heart and reduce stress.  So get out your measuring tape and see if you are at risk!!!