Expert: Nevil Kapadia - 10/10/2009

Question
Hi- I am an overweight adult (5"8 and 200 lbs) and I am trying to lose weight by eating right and exercising. I also have varicose veins. I am wondering what you would suggest in terms of an exercise schedule. Would it be dangerous for me to run at my weight? Should I start off by walking? What is the distance you would recommend for me to walk/run? Any help would be appreciated.

Answer
Hi Carly,
I woud start with fast walking and then monitor how your joints feel.If your muscles ache then that is a good thing as they are having a work out, but when joints hurt you should ease off.
Always try to add some resistence training when you are ready.
Walk for as far as you can or have time for. It is better to do a short but fast walk than a slow long one.

However, nothing will change unless your diet changes too!

Eat plenty of protein ( you can get an accurate number at my site)
Fresh veg and 6-8 glasses of plain water a day.

Reduce your intake of wheat products like bread,pasta, busicuits, cakes etc
Try to replace milk with soya milk.

Doing these simple steps will dramaticaly improve our health.
All the best