Your body's health WARNINGS

Not everyone likes looking at their body in the mirror, but could your curves be sending you a useful health message? Here’s what you need to know

We’re a nation that likes to snack, with eight out of 10 Brits admitting to snacking up to six times a day during lockdown*. So it’s no surprise that most of us end up putting on some weight as we get older.

‘Hormonal changes mean it’s normal for women to gain weight around their abdomen during the menopause,’ says Simon Wilkinson, from body composition expert Tanita, ‘though the scientific consensus is that weight gain over the rest of your body is largely down to poor diet or lack of exercise.’

It can also reveal hidden health issues, so here are some health and exercise tips you should know. But if you have any concerns about your health, see your GP.

FAT AROUND YOUR STOMACH

What it might mean

YOUR HEART IS AT RISK?

‘Weight gain around the midsection is usually caused by eating a high-GI diet – sugary foods, white bread, potatoes or white rice,’ says functional health coach Fran McElwaine (realhealthandwellness.com). ‘It’s associated with many health issues, including heart disease.’