Abstract

LEWIS, John E  and  SCHNEIDERMAN, Neil. Nutrition, Physical Activity, Weight Management, and Health. rev.colomb.psiquiatr. [online]. 2006, vol.35, suppl.1, pp.157-175. ISSN 0034-7450.

Non-communicable chronic diseases, such as metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular dysfunction, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, make up a large portion of total world-wide mortality, and are becoming more prevalent in developing countries. These diseases have taken on a larger importance, as fertility rates in many developing countries are still rising and contributing to the overall planetary population. Chronic diseases are typically due to poor dietary habits, physical inactivity, and subsequent unhealthy body composition. However, achieving a healthy weight and then sustaining weight loss can reduce obesity-related disorders and improve the risk profile for chronic disease. Weight control through an improved diet style and higher levels of caloric expenditure can also improve the quality of life for people with diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and mental health, although the specific recommendations for the disease may vary slightly. These benefits will last for a long time if the modifications are sustained. Understanding the effects that various diets and physical activity modes and patterns have on healthy weight maintenance will ultimately prove beneficial for people who are otherwise at risk for a variety of chronic diseases.

Keywords : Obesity; chronic disease; diet; exercise.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in English     · English ( pdf )