Reasons to resist winter weather overeating

By Bryan Gilreath, PT, DPT, OCS, CWCE

Winter weather conditions can pose a challenge to our plans to remain active and healthy. As our normal habits and typical recreational activities change due to staying inside, our diets also tend to be impacted. The stress of the holidays can lead to overeating or binging on unhealthy items. Nearly everyone experiences some holiday weight gain; however, this time of year can be especially challenging for obese adults (BMI > 30).

To compound matters, a recent study by the CDC reports that many adults who recently visited a physician for obesity-related issues also suffer from other chronic conditions including:

• Hypertension (42%)
• Diabetes (24%)
• Arthritis (16%)

For adults, remaining active in the winter is critical to preventing weight gain and other conditions. For individuals with obesity, that’s hard to think about with sore joints and the fatigue that comes with excess weight. A Sheltering Arms physical therapist understands these challenges and can help obese patients learn an exercise program to increase strength and mobility. These movements can eventually be practiced at home and include:

• Exercises to address strength deficits
• Stretches to improve flexibility
• Balance exercises
• Aerobic activities

Sheltering Arms also has fitness centers where many patients prefer to get out of the house and workout in a pool or with our cardio equipment in a group environment for extra motivation.

Research continues to demonstrate physical activity and exposure to physical therapy can be helpful in managing chronic conditions. A Sheltering Arms physical therapist can work with patients, and their physicians, to determine baseline abilities and to create an exercise regimen to help remain active through the winter months. Please call: 1-877-56-REHAB to learn more.