Unit 5
Weight

It is difficult to exaggerate the problems related to physical health, mental health, and social well-being that are associated with body weight. First, the health implications associated with obesity are extensive. Second, achieving weight loss is a frustrating and largely unsuccessful venture, and third, the problems associated with being underweight can be as serious as those for obesity.

This unit discusses the complex issue of weight, including methods of assessment, health issues associated with less than optimal weight status, eating disorders, and healthy weight management strategies.

Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to

1. describe the methods used to quantify body composition, and state the advantages and limitations of each.
2. define the terms obesity and overweight, and discuss the health problems associated with them.
3. define the term underweight, and discuss the health problems associated with it.
4. describe the three major eating disorders, and explain the health risks related to these conditions.
5. discuss the roles of exercise, diet, nutrition, lifestyle modification, fad diets, and other strategies of weight control, and describe the effectiveness of each strategy.