KNOW MORE: NUTRITION AND WEIGHT
Weight is culturally and socially linked to body image, discrimination and self-esteem. Nowhere is this in greater evidence than in the LGBT community, where concepts of physical beauty and sexual attraction are inexorably intertwined on many different levels.
- Gay men have a significantly increased risk of eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, binge eating and purging. Younger gay men are particularly at risk.
- Lesbians are more likely to be overweight and have poor nutrition. People who are overweight or obese are at increased risk for high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, stroke, sleeping disorders, respiratory problems and some types of cancer.
- Malnutrition, protein depletion, weight loss, body fat distribution and metabolic changes are common complications associated with HIV infection in the U.S.
Good nutrition is important for everyone. Here are steps towards good nutrition and healthy weight:
- Educate yourself and others about proper nutritional health.
- Develop effective exercise regime tailored to your needs.
- Screen for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. People with a family history, people who are overweight, and people of color are especially at risk.
- If you are at risk, screen for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
- Seek out friendly and understanding support to help with your nutrition and weight concerns./li>