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Rhode Island Department of Health Rhode Island Department of Health

 

 

Program Activities
Initiative for a Healthy Weight
RI Department of Health
3 Capitol Hill, Room 409
Providence, RI 02908
Phone: 401-222-4847
Fax: 401-222-4415
Eliza Lawson

 

 

Initiative for a Healthy Weight

The Obesity Epidemic

What are Overweight and Obesity?

Overweight and obesity are the result of an energyThe energy balance imbalance. Food supplies us with fuel (calories) for our bodies to function. Our bodies burn some of this fuel through physical activity. When we eat more calories than we burn, the extra calories are stored as fat. Having too much stored fat can be dangerous to your health.

 

Learn your BMI

BMI

Weight Status

Below 18.5

Underweight

18.5-24.9

Normal

25.0-29.9

Overweight

30.0 and above

Obese

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a common way of determining if a person is overweight or obese. If you have a BMI of 25-29.9, you are considered overweight. Adults with a BMI of 30 or more are considered obese and are at an increased risk of developing serious or deadly health conditions.

By decreasing calories through better nutrition, increasing physical activity, or both, we can balance the “energy scale” and maintain a healthy weight. You can start here with tips on physical activity and nutrition.

If you are concerned about the obesity epidemic, find out what RI is doing and how you can help.


 

 

Did you know?

Walking 1 mile burns about 100 calories. Adding a 1-mile walk daily results in a 10-pound per year weight loss!