Obesity is a medical condition in which excess body fat has accumulated to the extent that it may have a negative impact on health. A body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater is frequently used to identify obesity in adults.
Causes of Obesity
Obesity is a complex disease with multiple causes. Some of the most common causes include:
Genetics: Genetics play a role in determining how easily a person gains weight and how their body stores fat.
Diet: Eating too many calories, especially from processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats, can contribute to obesity.
Physical inactivity: Not getting enough exercise can lead to weight gain and make it harder to maintain a healthy weight.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can also contribute to obesity.
Health Risks of Obesity
Obesity can increase the risk of a number of serious health problems, including:
Heart disease: Obesity is a major risk factor for heart disease, including coronary artery disease, stroke, and heart failure.
Stroke: Obesity increases the risk of stroke, which is a sudden loss of blood flow to the brain.
Type 2 diabetes: Obesity is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes, a chronic condition that affects the way the body regulates blood sugar.
Cancer: Obesity increases the risk of several types of cancer, including endometrial, breast, colon, and kidney cancer.
High blood pressure: Obesity increases the risk of high blood pressure, which can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Sleep apnea: Obesity is a major risk factor for sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing is interrupted during sleep.
Osteoarthritis: Obesity increases the risk of osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that causes pain and stiffness in the joints.
Preventing and Managing Obesity
There are a number of things you can do to prevent and manage obesity, including:
Eat a healthy diet: Focus on eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Choose lean protein sources, such as fish, poultry, and beans. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
Get regular exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Make lifestyle changes: In addition to diet and exercise, there are a number of lifestyle changes that can help you lose weight and keep it off, such as getting enough sleep, managing stress, and avoiding tobacco use.
Seek professional help: If you are struggling to lose weight on your own, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian. They can help you develop a personalized weight loss plan.
