As part of the “Vamos Falar de Saúde” program, broadcast this Wednesday, July 15th, on Radio Huíla and live on the Grupo Liberatos pages, Dr. Luzia Palaia, a specialist in General and Family Medicine, spoke about an essential health topic: what should be a person’s ideal weight and what foods should we consume to maintain it throughout life.
The initiative is part of the Yellow and Green July campaigns, dedicated to raising awareness of viral hepatitis and the prevention of head and neck cancer. Furthermore, it reinforces the importance of adopting healthy habits as a way to prevent various diseases.
What is ideal weight?
During the interview, the doctor clarified that ideal weight does not correspond to a single number. On the contrary, it is a range of values appropriate to each person’s height, age, sex, and physical constitution.
“Ideal weight isn’t just a single rigid number, but rather a range of values that suits each individual’s height, age, sex, and physical constitution, and which is reflected in the proper functioning of all the body’s systems,” she explained.
According to the specialist, this value is frequently assessed using the Body Mass Index (BMI). However, she stressed that it’s also important to consider the distribution of body fat and the amount of muscle mass.
Benefits of maintaining a healthy weight
Maintaining a healthy weight brings numerous advantages to the body. Among the main benefits, Dr. Luzia highlighted:
- Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease;
- Prevention of type 2 diabetes;
- Lower probability of joint problems;
- Decreased risk of some types of cancer;
- Improved mood and physical capacity;
- Better sleep quality;
- Boosted self-esteem and emotional well-being.
- A balanced diet is fundamental
Diet plays a decisive role in maintaining an ideal weight. Therefore, the specialist recommended a varied and balanced diet.
“We should prioritize vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins, such as fish, poultry, and eggs. In addition, we should include healthy fats, present in olive oil, nuts, and oily fish,” she stated.
On the other hand, she advised reducing the consumption of sugars, salt, saturated fats, and processed foods. Similarly, she reminded everyone of the importance of drinking water regularly to ensure good hydration.
Prevention begins with good habits
When addressing obesity, the doctor emphasized that it is a condition that can be prevented through healthy choices.
“Prevention is always the best way to avoid disease,” she stressed.
According to her explanation, factors such as sedentary lifestyles, unbalanced diets, and the environment in which we live contribute to the increase in obesity. Thus, adopting good habits from an early age makes all the difference.
Among these habits, she highlighted mindful eating, regular physical activity, and quality sleep. Furthermore, she recommended eating slowly, chewing food well, and having meals in a calm environment. These behaviors foster a better relationship with food and contribute to well-being.
Watch the full interview
To learn all the explanations, recommendations, and tips from Dr. Luzia Palaia, watch the full interview on the official channels of the Liberatos Group.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LIBERATOS_ANGOLA
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/share/v/1JxyD7QhjS/
Information is one of the best tools for prevention. Therefore, taking care of your health also begins with being well-informed.