Fulfil a lifetime

Losing Weight

We know that losing weight isn’t easy but by making some small changes to your lifestyle you can take control of your weight and heart health.

Losing Weight

When you eat more energy (kilojoules) than your body is burning, you will gain weight. The extra kilojoules that you’ve eaten will be stored as fat - too much fat results in weight gain.

If you don't exercise regularly you're also more likely  to gain weight

Regularly eating fatty foods, sweet foods and sugary drinks will also cause you to gain weight.

How do I know if I need to lose weight?

One way of calculating if you are within a healthy weight range is to know your body mass index (BMI).

BMI is calculated from a person's weight and height. It is used as a tool to identify possible weight problems in adults.

Talk to your doctor about an achievable weight loss plan for you.

Guide to Heart Healthy Eating PDF

Next steps

How can I lose weight?

The best way to lose weight is by reducing your kilojoule (energy) intake by cutting down on fat and sugar you eat and by following a healthy diet.

Doing regular exercise also plays an important part in losing weight as you burn up more energy when you exercise.

  • Try not to lose weight too quickly. Aim to lose weight slowly and steadily.
  • Between half a kilo and two kilo's a month is healthy, and you are more likely to keep the weight off for good.
  • Crash diets are not a healthy option. Losing weight quickly involves losing essential water and muscle as well as fat.
  • When you stop the crash diet you are likely to not only regain the weight that you have lost but you may also put on even more weight.

Remember you are more likely to succeed with the support of family and friends.