CNN recently reported on a difference you might see the next time you see your doctor. Instead of just getting weighed and perhaps calculating your BMI (Body Mass Index), the nurse may measure your waist circumference. Why?
Weight that is carried around the abdomen is especially dangerous. It is an indicator of VAT (Visceral Adipose Tissue). This is more than just the “jelly” you see around your waist; VAT often wraps itself around internal organs and is associated with higher levels of cardiovascular disease.
This is not news per se; we have long known that this kind of fat is dangerous. What is new is the increase that has been seen over the last year–many assume due to the COVID-19 “nineteen.” Some people may have actually put on 19 pounds during the pandemic (due to sitting at home with a house full of food coupled with less activity); even if we have put on less, it is important to realize that the added weight is not just a matter of changing how our clothes fit or our appearance. It has serious health consequences–which is why doctor’s offices are increasingly measuring waist circumference.
We also have different body types. Some folks carry their weight in their bottoms or legs. In any case, eating properly and maintaining a healthy weight and BMI is always a good idea. For those of us–myself included–who are relatively slim but put on weight right in the belly, though, we should be especially cognizant of the risks of VAT.
The article is definitely worth the read. It is not long and it gives easy instructions on how to measure waist circumference and how to interpret what you find.
Knowledge is power…and, in this case, it is also a tool for reaching better health outcomes. Check that spare tire!
Today on the Jewish calendar is Tisha B’Av, the ninth day of the Hebrew month of Av; it is a 25-hour fast that commemorates the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Ancient Jerusalem. Aside from Yom Kippur, it is the only full fast (others just go from sunrise to sunset)…and I’ve got about 6 hours to go.
The goal of the fast (which is the case on Yom Kippur too) is not to lose weight or to suffer greatly, but rather to focus less on the physical and more on the metaphysical. Tisha B’Av causes those who observe it to reflect on the history of the Jewish people: the enemies who have arisen against us from the outside, as well as the enemies from within. Not having to think about eating (which isn’t easy), allows the day to be mostly spiritual, and also gives us a small taste of the suffering of our ancestors.
Interestingly, fasting has been a hot trend in the diet/fitness world the last several years. In particular, a lot of attention has been paid to Intermittent Fasting.
What is Intermittent Fasting? There are several versions. One way to do it is to restrict eating to only certain times of the day (generally an 8-hour period). Others fast one or two days out of the week. Others choose 1-3 days to eat a very restricted calorie count (say around 500 KCals) during the week, and eat normally the rest of the week. The science behind it is that during the fasting periods, the body is required to burn fat in order to maintain its regular functions; in particular, this kind of fasting seems to target belly fat. Other health benefits may include better control of insulin and cholesterol levels.
Why this is appealing to many is that you don’t have to think about calories or only eating certain kinds of food. The process is very simple: eat during certain times and not during others. This can also simplify the dieting process: no need for extensive reading of labels, less meals to plan , etc. Of course, one shouldn’t assume that during non-fasting times root beer floats, corned beef sandwiches and tubs of whipped topping should be the staples of the diet. As always, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish and less-processed foods are recommended.
I started doing Intermittent Fasting many years ago not really knowing that it was a “thing.” I noticed that I grazed a LOT after dinner, and it added up to hundreds of calories. I made a rule for myself that I still follow pretty closely: after dinner, no eating! I can drink calorie-free liquids, but that is it. (I do make exceptions for special occasions but don’t go crazy). I found that it helps me control my weight and that my cravings for after-dinner snacks quickly subsided.
There is admittedly a big difference between the kind of religious fasting to which many of us are accustomed (Ramadan, Yom Kippur, etc.), but there is a commonality as well. While one focuses on a physiological goal and the other on a more spiritual goal, both require self-control and self-sacrifice. Both also are means to an end: either greater physical health or greater spiritual awareness.
Readers, I would be interested to know how many of you have tried Intermittent Fasting, or if you currently practice it now. What are the challenges and what are the advantages? What are the results you have seen?
I am a believer–as long as it is done in moderation. Before jumping into Intermittent Fasting, though, do some research and talk to your physician. Be safe and be healthy.
Kosher Fitness 