Dear Mish Q&A

Back by popular demand is the Dear Mish section! Not only is Michelle our superstar Editor but she also has prior training in the area of health. So if you are after some healthy advice or have a concern about your body you would like addressed, then go to:


Dear Doctor


Please note: questions can not be answered personally.


Hi Lisa,

The area you described as where you carry the majority of your weight is often a typical problem area for women.

A common misconception about losing weight is that if you target the area you are unhappy with, you will lose weight from this area. This is not the case. In order to maintain a healthy overall size and body shape it is important to participate in all kinds of exercise. The best thing I would reccommend for both you and your Mum is to start walking.

A brisk 30 minute walk (and then working up to 35, 40 and 45 minutes) can do wonders.

Also if you have a gymnasium near by, join up and get a program designed that is tailor-made just for you. Or if you cannot afford to do this, which many of us can't, you can do your own weights at home using cans of soup or books. Sounds silly - but it works just as well!

I would definitely suggest though getting proper advice on the kinds of exercises (so perhaps you and your mum could share the cost of one personal training session) and then armed with a lot of new information on the types of exercise to do, you can then tackle them at home together with your books and cans of soup. You'd be amazed at the kinds of results you can achieve with this simplified way.

The key to a healthier body weight and shape is to vary your exercise regime and to also eat well. Enjoy your fresh fruit and vegetables, drink a lot of water (water makes up approximately 60% of our body weight.) Try to limit sugars and high fat foods. Being active is the key!

Hope this helps,
Mish x