Wednesday 27 January 2010
Find out all you need to know about losing weight and keeping it off by visiting Casuarina Square Shopping Centre and speaking to a Dietitian this Thursday, 28 January.
This week is Australia's Healthy Weight Week (24 - 31 January), and it's the perfect time to take up the 10-week challenge of eating healthier and moving more, advised NT Department of Health and Families (DHF) Dietitian, Robin Lion.
"Almost half all Territorians are overweight or obese, a figure that is reflected around Australia and ranks our nation as one of the fattest in the world," Ms Lion said.
"Making small changes over a period of time can have a significant impact on overall health.
"At first, it can be hard to stick with lifestyle changes like healthy eating and exercise, but like anything you do regularly, it quickly becomes a habit - and it's a healthy habit at that," Ms Lion said.
Ms Lion and a team of nurses from Community and Primary Care will be available to speak with members of the public and give free advice at Casuarina Square on Thursday between the hours of 9.00 am to 3.30 pm.
"Australian's Healthy Weight Week is backed by the Dietitians Association of Australia, and this year the focus is on helping people commit to a 10-week challenge," said Ms Lion.
"Every week, we'll encourage people to make a simple change to their lifestyle, including decreasing portion s, and swapping full-fat and high-joule products for lower-fat and lower-joule products.
"By making one of these small changes each week over an extended period - 10 weeks in this case - and by being active for at least 30 to 60 minutes each day, you can greatly improve your physical health," Ms Lion said.
It's generally perceived that illnesses and conditions resulting from poor nutrition only affect people as they get older, but the message is just as important for younger people too.
"We see cases of people with high blood pressure, or Type 2 diabetes, who have been diagnosed in their 20s and 30s. These conditions affect people for the rest of their lives.
"Prevention is always better than cure and I urge Territorians to take up the 10-week challenge," said Ms Lion.
To take the 10-week challenge visit www.healthyweightweek.com.au or visit Casuarina Square on Thursday.
Media contact: Anna Campbell 0401 116 144
