With a tape measure, measure the waist at the point below the rib cage but above the belly button. Gallstones occur 3-4 times more often in overweight individuals. This is equal to a 10-20 pound weight loss in a 200 pound individual. The essential ingredients of any program for weight management should include sensible portions, moderation of fat and daily physical activity. Everything leads back to calories.
Calories do count.
Per gram, fat has more calories than protein or carbohydrate. There are 9 calories per gram of fat versus 4 calories per gram of carbohydrate or protein. Each pound of weight gain, or loss, is equal to approximately 3500 calories. Exercise burns calories, increases muscle mass, and physical activity can help our bodies burn calories more efficiently. The American Heart Association recommends that every US adult accumulate 30 minutes or more of moderate physical activity on most, preferably all days of the week.