Obesity is a complex health condition involving having an excessive amount of body fat that increases the risk of other serious medical conditions. The main causes of obesity include:
- Overeating - Consuming more calories from food and drinks than your body can burn off through normal daily activities and exercise over time leads to weight gain.
- Lack of exercise - Not getting enough physical activity to burn calories. Sedentary lifestyles with lots of sitting contribute.
- Genetics - Some people inherit a predisposition to gain weight more easily. However, lifestyle factors still play a major role.
- Medications - Certain medication side effects can promote weight gain such as steroids.
- Age - As we get older, metabolisms tend to slow down. Staying active helps offset this.
- Pregnancy - Gestational weight gain that is not lost after giving birth.
- Medical problems - Conditions like hypothyroidism or PCOS can disrupt weight control.
- Stress - Chronically high stress hormones may increase hunger cues and fat storage around the abdomen. Self-care is key.
Diagnosing obesity involves calculating an individual's body mass index (BMI). This measures body fat in relation to height and weight. A BMI of 30 or higher indicates obesity. Other assessments like waist circumference and body fat percentage tests give more details.
Health risks rise substantially with obesity and include heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, fatty liver disease, kidney disease, stroke, many types of cancers, mental illness, and premature death.
Losing even a modest amount equaling 5-10% of current weight can significantly lower these risks. Long-term lifestyle changes are necessary for sustainable weight management. Key strategies include:
- Nutritious lower calorie eating
- 150 minutes per week of moderate activity
- Strength training
- Prioritizing sleep
- Managing stress
- Working with healthcare providers for support as needed
In conclusion, obesity is a treatable metabolic disorder involving excess body fat that impairs health. Small consistent healthy lifestyle adjustments that become lifelong habits are most effective for losing weight safely and maintaining losses over time. Early prevention helps given childhood obesity trends. Weight management is a journey requiring self-compassion, patience, and support from healthcare providers like Renew Medical Center.