Itz Holistically Wholesome

Happy Chooseday! And of course, we are going to ensure that we exercise our freedom of choice concerning our overall health and well-being, and these choices I hope would be excellent ones. Today, I want to delve into a topic that is generally overlooked by many but is critically important and that is the impact of waist size on our health. Some may be quick to dismiss waist size as just a number on a tape measure, but the truth is, that it holds significant implications for our health. Larger waistlines do not just affect our appearance but also open the doors to a host of diseases and health complications.

According to the National Library of Medicine in an article entitled. ‘Health risks associated with high waist circumference: A systematic review,’  “high waist circumference is linked to potential development of non-communicable diseases. Findings show that high waist circumference increases the risks of developing hypertension(high blood pressure), type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia (a disorder known for an excess of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in your blood), joint pain, low back pain, and hyperuricemia” (having high uric acid levels in your body; Uric acid is a waste product that’s created when your body breaks down chemicals called purines in food and drinks. Most uric acid dissolves in your blood, passes through your kidneys, and leaves your body in your urine or pee). Other risk includes: cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia, glucose intolerance, Hyperlipidemia (an abnormally high concentration of fats or lipids in the blood), or elevated cholesterol, dementia, impaired pulmonary function, metabolic syndrome, certain types of cancer and death. The recent health crisis has led various groups to ask the government to increase its role in raising public awareness to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

While we may agree that the government has a role to play in spreading awareness, we can make a change in our lives and that of those around us. Itz Holistically Wholesome is doing its part to raise awareness on how critical a healthy lifestyle is and trust that you will be inspired to begin to make changes in your lives as well. The truth is only you or I can effectively take care of ourselves, so why not begin to do so today by aiming for a healthy waist circumference.

Here are some benefits of having a smaller waist

1. Improved health: A smaller waist is often associated with a lower risk of various issues, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
2. Enhanced Mobility: Maintaining a smaller waist can contribute to better overall mobility and flexibility, promoting an active lifestyle.
3. Boosted Confidence: I can personally attest to this. Whenever I am at my best, I feel really good about myself, like I can do all things. And for sure we can, because the word tells us that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13). Therefore, maintaining a smaller waist can positively impact body image and self-confidence.
4. Reduced Strain on the Joints: Carrying excess weight around the waist can put a strain on joints, especially the spine. A smaller waist may alleviate some of the pressure thus providing you with the relief that you so desperately need.

In case you are now wondering what is the ideal waist circumference range, I got you. It is recommended that women’s waist circumference should be 35 inches or less to be in a healthy range. For men, a waist circumference of 40 inches or less is typically recommended. Mind you, that there are a few essential individual factors to consider such as body size, and ethnicity when determining a healthy waist circumstance. So be sure to consult with your physician. So if you are someone whose waist circumference exceeds the recommended amount, you can do something about it so do not feel disheartened.

“Put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:22-24, ESV).

Next week’s post will focus on strategies for reducing waist circumference. Until then, may you be blessed abundantly.