Obesity

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(ix)    Taking Tea/Coffee frequently does not add much to calorie intake compared to fried foods – A calorie is a calorie whether it is coming from any of the food groups. What is important is how much of that particular food is consumed. For example 4 cups of coffee a day with 100ml of semi-skimmed milk per cup can contribute to 440 calories compared to 216 calories coming from 20 pieces of fried potato chips, Extra 250 calories a day over the normal requirement can add ½ kg of weight in four weeks.

 (x)     Spot fat reduction is possible – This myth is a fallacy. Body fat is not used to provide energy in a localised manner. Therefore, by exercising particular area of the body, like doing sit-ups to reduce potbelly, will not help lose body fat from that area alone. Fat can only be reduced in a systematic way from the whole body by increasing calorie expenditure through, say aerobic exercise. Passive abdominal exercises with electronic machines to lose weight around the spot is a big misconception and not proven in any research.

(xi)    As we grow older, we get weaker and suffer from more aches and pains – Not strictly true. It is accepted that fatigue, joint discomfort, losing muscle, gaining fat are all part of the natural process. But the fact is that many age-associated declines occur not because of the ageing process, but largely as a result of our lifestyle habits including faulty eating and lack of activity / exercise. By increasing your strength and flexibility with exercise, you can prevent aches and pains and slow down loss of muscle mass and enjoy life as ever. Fauja Singh took up running after the age of 80 and today at 95 years of age is winning races all over the world. His secret of success is simple traditional diet and exercise.

(xii)   People over 50 years cannot exercise anymore – Not true at all. Exercise does not necessarily mean walking briskly, swimming or cycling. Activities like raising the arms lifting the legs can get one started and eventually get into the exercise programme and achieve the desired weight loss.