Obesity
Obesity is a complex disease characterized by an excessive amount of body fat that increases the risk of other health problems. It is usually caused by a combination of factors including genetics, diet, physical inactivity, and medications.
To be classified as obese, an adult must have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher. BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. A BMI between 25-29.9 is considered overweight. Obesity can lead to serious conditions like:
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Certain cancers
- Sleep apnea
- Osteoarthritis
The main causes of obesity include:
- Unhealthy diet - Eating high-calorie foods with low nutritional value can easily lead to weight gain over time. Things like sugary drinks, processed foods, excessive carbs and fats promote obesity.
- Lack of physical activity - Leading a sedentary lifestyle with little to no exercise allows excess calories to be stored as fat.
- Genetics - Some people inherit a predisposition to gain weight and have a slower metabolism.
- Medications - Certain prescription meds may cause weight gain.
Losing weight can be challenging but is important for obesity management. Here are some tips:
- Follow an overall healthy diet - Focus on fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats
- Engage in regular physical activity - Aim for 30-60 minutes per day to start
- Make lifestyle changes like sleep and stress management
- Consider weight loss medications or procedures if diet and exercise alone don't work
The key is developing habits you can maintain long-term. Small sustainable changes to your eating and exercise lead to better success rates. Reaching out to a doctor or nutritionist can also provide personalized guidance.
Overall, obesity is a complex disease, but it can often be prevented and managed with healthy lifestyle choices. Maintaining a healthy diet and active lifestyle are the best ways to avoid or overcome obesity in most cases. But genetic and medical factors can also influence it, so speaking to a doctor is wise if you are concerned about your weight. With commitment and support, lasting weight loss is possible for most people.