Queensland males more likely to be ‘skinny-fat’
More than 23 per cent of Queenslanders who are not currently overweight or obese are at risk of being so, particularly young males, according to the latest Queensland Health data.
Queensland Health Advanced Nutritionist Mathew Dick said males aged 18 to 30 years were more likely to be at risk of becoming overweight or obese due to unhealthy lifestyles, attitudes and behaviours.
“Two-thirds of Queensland adults are overweight or obese, and around 30 per cent don’t even realise it – a further 23 per cent are at risk of becoming overweight or obese,” Mr Dick said.
“We all know that one person who seems to maintain their figure, despite rarely exercising and indulging in unhealthy foods – their lifestyle and body shape simply don’t add up.
“From the outside they look healthy, but internally they could have the same health concerns as someone who is overweight or obese.
“They could experience high cholesterol, high blood pressure and have a high percentage of body fat – which increases their risk of chronic diseases.
“The easiest way to tell if you fit into this ‘skinny-fat’ category, is to take a good look at your lifestyle.
“If you sit and play video games more than you walk outside; if you eat fast-food more than you cook at home; if you go out drinking every Friday night and spend the weekends hungover in bed – it may be time to start looking at your health.”
Mr Dick said the data revealed young men, who were university educated and lived in metropolitan areas, were the most at risk.
“Young men, who appear a healthy weight, often have very little concern for their diet – they believe because they don’t look overweight or obese, they don’t need to prioritise healthy eating,” he said.
“They are also convenience eaters – which means they often eat the first thing available, and many don’t believe healthy food options are substantial enough to satisfy their hunger.”
Diabetes Queensland CEO Michelle Trute said bad food and insufficient exercise were a short-cut to chronic disease and deadly health conditions like stroke, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
“Across Queensland, rates of type 2 diabetes are on the rise and the age of those affected is decreasing all the time,” Ms Trute said.
“If you don’t want to live your life with chronic disease, don’t take risks with what you eat or the way you live.”
ENDS
Media contact: 3708 5376
