According to research findings from the Women's Health Australia study, being overweight is overwhelmingly associated with chronic diseases.
In the largest study of its kind conducted in Australia, researchers assessed the health of over 30,000 women between 1996 and 2006. Being overweight or obese was consistently associated with chronic illness including heart disease, hypertension, osteoporosis, diabetes, asthma and arthritis.
Body weight was an even bigger risk factor than smoking, alcohol use or education.
Researchers also reported that less than two in five young women ate more than two pieces of fruit per day, well below the recommended intake. In contrast, more than half of the middle aged women in the study ate the recommended amount.
In all age groups, being physically active provided some protection from chronic diseases.
All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.