Honoring the Gift of Heart Health for American Indians

Section Five - Maintain a Healthy Weight! Stay Active and Feel Better!

Maintain a Healthy Weight! Stay Active and Feel Better!
Do You Know if You Need To Lose Weight?
Try These Steps To Lose Weight
Say "Yes" to Physical Activity
Celebrate in a Healthy Way With Your Family
Check Three Things You Will Do To Help You Lose Weight

Maintain a Healthy Weight! Stay Active and Feel Better!

Did you know that losing even a small amount of weight can lessen health problems that result from being overweight? This section will discuss healthy ways to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

Mary's problem: Mary and her family like to have snacks while they watch television. Recently, she has noticed that her family has gained a little too much weight.

Mary says she and her family gained weight because:

• "Our family sits in front of the TV for hours. We snack even after having a large dinner."
• "The kids no longer play outside like they used to. They watch TV, play video games, and use the computer."
• "I don't have time or energy to go for a walk."
• "We eat at places where the food is cheaper. We order large hamburgers, french fries, and sodas."

Mary: "The doctor told me that being overweight affects my heart and my health. My family and I have started walking to lose the extra pounds."

Does Mary's family situation sound like yours? If so, it is time to make some healthy changes!

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Public Health Service
National Institutes of Health
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
NIH Publication No. 08-6340
June 2008