By Anna Niec
Mostly we choose foods based on our likes. Consider though, the prevalence of fatness in our community. As many as 60 per cent of adults are overweight.

It is clear that for some of us, food choices lead to a gradual weight gain which with time can affect our health and reduce our fitness level.

Carrying excess body fat is like carrying a pack all day long, everyday. Some people carry as much as 20 per cent excess body fat. That’s like carrying approximately a 20kg pack.

Imagine having to bring a heavy pack along to your PT session – if you are carrying excess body fat that’s exactly what you are doing. The disadvantages of carrying a surplus body fat pack are:

• Slows you down in sprints and runs – you will have a relatively slower BFA than if you were in good shape.
• You will tire faster which means you will be able to cover less distance.
• You are more likely to avoid exercise because it is getting harder and that will set up a catch 22 where you are more likely to put on body fat.

Take action – leave weight behind
Step 1: Are your usual eating habits suitable for your current lifestyle? If you are carrying excess body fat the answer is no.

You are consuming too many kilojoules – your diet brings more food energy than your body needs for all its daily activities.

To cut back on excessive kilojoules target fats. Reduce the amount of foods high in saturated fats first and eat less often

Step 2: Take a look at your exercise routine. Have you recently given up on some exercise?

If yes, you are burning less kilojoules than you were when you exercised more often or for longer. The extra kilojoules that you aren’t burning turn into small parcels of fat and, given time, will add up to form a body fat pack.

To avoid this, return to your usual exercise routine or cut back on the food.

If you need more help sorting out eating habits you may choose to see an Accredited Practicing Dietitian (APD).

APDs are experts in nutrition and are able to help improve your eating habits to achieve your personal health and fitness goals.

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