GET FIT FOR 05:The Great Western Hospital is having an open day on Saturday, February 26, between 10am to 3pm.

The dieticians will have a stand where you can have your weight, height and waist measurement checked, guess the calorie and fat content of different foods and receive practical tips on weight loss and healthy eating. See you there.

In the meanwhile, are a few myths and facts we are often asked about:

FACT: Currently, more than 50 per cent of women, and about two thirds of men are either overweight or obese.

FACT: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and osteoarthritis. Losing 10 per cent of your body weight over six months significantly reduces the risk of these diseases.

FACT: If you want to lose weight it's important to make long-term lifestyle changes that will make you a more healthy and lighter person permanently.

MYTH: It's okay to skip breakfast. Ten to 33 per cent of us regularly skip breakfast. However, eating breakfast significantly enhances mental performance, concentration and mood. And, if we've missed breakfast we are more likely to snack on foods that are high in sugar or fat.

MYTH: Choosing healthy food is boring. Eating healthily doesn't mean cutting out all your favourite foods, it's just about getting the balance right. Add a bit of variety by changing what you usually eat and trying a new food or new recipe.

MYTH: If the label says low fat or reduced fat the product will be a healthy choice. A reduced fat product must contain at least 25 per cent less fat than the standard product. However, these foods tend to be high in fat and energy in the first place, so the reduced fat version may still not be a healthy choice.

RECIPE

Smoked Mackerel Pate

150g (6oz), smoked mackerel fillets, flaked

75g (3oz) quark,

1/2 tsp creamed horseradish/wholegrain mustard,squeeze of lemon juice.

Mix all ingredients together; eat with chopped raw veg and toast, pitta bread or crackers.