More and more people are suffering from two of the diseases of the modern world: infertility and obesity. Both are often belittled and/or seen as taboo subjects. But something can be done about both.

In Europe around 25% of the population are overweight. Sport and a healthy diet can prevent this but discipline is needed. Being overweight has many consequences including a high cholesterol level, arteriosclerosis, gout, etc. It is therefore important to take weight issues seriously and aim to maintain a healthy body weight.

The focus needs to be on reducing fat and/or carbohydrates. We eat a lot more fat (about 10-15%) than we should. It is also important to avoid added sugar which does not contain fibres.

It is possible to get an individual medical assessment of how much carbohydrate should be eaten daily. The amount depends on age, weight and body size. Many people assume that only fat needs to be reduced in a diet but carbohydrates can also cause excessive weight. If the body absorbs more carbohydrates than it needs for metabolism and general energy expenditure, the liver will turn the surplus into glycogen, which is then transformed into fat.

Activating muscles requires energy. To get that energy, the body will use energy reserves in the form of fat. The more the muscles are used, the more energy is required. It is known that fat energy reserves start being used after approximately 30 minutes of persistent exercise.

When losing weight, it is important to pay attention to drinking sufficient fluids! Only when the body contains sufficient fluids can it eliminate, through the kidneys, unnecessary waste. Important rules to remember:

• Restrict amount of fat in diet
• Restrict carbohydrates in your daily diet
• Take regular exercise
• Drink lots of fluid (water and tea)