Obesity is defined as having an excessive amount of body fat that increases the risk of medical illnesses and premature death. A person with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher is generally considered obese.
BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. For example, someone who is 5'10" (178cm) and weighs 210 lbs (95kg) would have a BMI of 30, which falls into the obese category.
Some key facts about obesity:
- It's a complex disease involving an excessive amount of body fat that harms health. Obesity is now considered a chronic medical disease in and of itself.
- In the United States, more than one-third of adults are obese. The rate of obesity has more than doubled since the 1970s.
- Obesity increases the risk of developing over 50 serious health conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and certain cancers. It's estimated that obesity and its related diseases cost the healthcare system around $150 billion per year.
So how do people become obese? There are many complex factors involved:
- Genetics - Your genes can affect the amount of body fat you store and where that fat is distributed. Genetics load the gun, lifestyle pulls the trigger when it comes to obesity.
- An unhealthy diet high in calories, fat, sugar, and processed foods promotes weight gain over time. Portion sizes have increased dramatically over the past 30 years as well.
- Lack of exercise or physical activity. Many people lead sedentary lifestyles which burn fewer calories.
- Other factors like poor sleep habits, stress, medical problems, and certain medications can also increase hunger and fat storage.
The good news is that
obesity can often be prevented through lifestyle changes like:
- Following a nutritious reduced-calorie meal plan high in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein
- Increasing physical activity with 150 minutes per week of moderate activity like brisk walking
- Making behavioral changes to control mindless overeating and reduce calorie intake
- Considering prescription medications or procedures like gastric bypass surgery for more severe cases under doctor supervision
So in summary, obesity is a complex disease involving excessive body fat that increases health risks, but it can often be prevented or managed through diet, exercise, and behavior changes. Contact the experts at Butterfly Hormone Center if you need help getting your weight under control!