Obesity is a complex disease that involves having an excessive amount of body fat. It is a growing health concern that affects people of all ages. Obesity usually results from a combination of causes and contributing factors, including:
- Genetics - Your genes may affect the amount of body fat you store and where that fat is distributed. Genetics can also play a role in how efficiently your body converts food into energy, how your body regulates your appetite and how your body burns calories during exercise.
- Diet - A diet that's high in calories, especially from unhealthy fast food, processed foods and high-fat foods, can contribute to weight gain. Consuming large portions and high-calorie beverages are common habits that can lead to obesity.
- Lack of physical activity - If you have a sedentary lifestyle and don't exercise regularly, you don't burn as many calories. Over time, this can lead to significant weight gain and reduced metabolism.
- Certain diseases and medications - In some people, obesity can be traced to a medical cause, such as Prader-Willi syndrome, Cushing's syndrome and other conditions. Medications, such as antidepressants, anti-seizure medications and antipsychotics, may also contribute to weight gain.
- Social and economic issues - Obesity tends to be more common in lower socioeconomic groups. This may be due to lack of access to healthy foods and safe places to exercise.
Obesity increases your risk of developing many serious health conditions and diseases, including:
- Heart disease and stroke - High blood pressure - Diabetes - Metabolic syndrome - Certain cancers - Fatty liver disease - Kidney disease - Osteoarthritis - Sleep apnea and breathing problems
Measuring obesity involves calculating your body mass index (BMI), which is your weight in kilograms divided by your height in meters squared. A BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese. Other methods are measuring your waist circumference and using skin calipers to estimate body fat percentage.
If you are concerned about obesity, make an appointment with your doctor. They can conduct exams and tests to look for any underlying medical problems. Treatment for obesity focuses on lifestyle changes to reduce your calorie intake and increase physical activity. Your doctor may recommend:
- Following a healthy eating plan, such as the Mediterranean diet - Increasing your physical activity with cardio and strength training - Making behavioral changes to control emotional eating - Trying FDA-approved weight loss medications - Considering bariatric surgery if other treatments are unsuccessful
With persistence and support, you can lose weight, improve your health and enhance your quality of life. Reach out to a doctor or nutritionist to get personalized advice and start developing healthier habits today. Small steps can lead to big rewards in fighting obesity. For example, consider a tailored weight loss plan from Hormone Harmony that is designed just for you. With their advanced hormone optimization treatments, you can overcome obesity and take control of your health.