vVanity

Change Gonna Come

by: Sacha Phillip | May. 09, 2007

 

Have you been feeling like you’re carrying around a few extra pounds, these days?

Well, statistics show that if you’re an African-American woman, you probably are.

Right now, 80% of African-American women are overweight and, as a result, more susceptible to serious illnesses like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and high blood pressure. African-Americans also die from these diseases more than any other group, largely due to lack of preventative care.

To address these issues, physician (and handsome star of VH1’s Celebrity Fit Club) Dr. Ian Smith has partnered with a number of African-American celebrities and organizations, to launch the 50 Million Pound Challenge. Recently, he took the time to offer Vixens of all backgrounds some tips to help us look, feel, and live, our best.

Get Real! People who are heavy do not have “big bones” – actually, 95% of people have very similar bone structure.

Prepare Yourself- Dr. Ian recommends pre-planning meals, as you would an outfit, to simplify the process of getting healthy.

Slow and Steady- Don’t try to overhaul your diet all at once. Incorporate small changes, one week at a time.

Go Green- Two meals each day must incorporate fruits and vegetables. They are “superfoods” that fight cancer and prevent other diseases.

Don’t Believe the Hype- Most over the counter diet pills don’t work and have “dangerous and uncomfortable side effects.”

Good Carb, Bad Carb- Get better acquainted with good carbs (fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, whole grains) and ditch the bad ones (pastries, white bread, white potatoes, etc.).

Take the Challenge! - Whether you’re overweight or at a healthy weight, you can benefit from the health and fitness tips offered at 50millionpounds.com. Check it out.