Blog Details

Obesity and Its ill Effects

Obesity – affecting health

In today’s day and age, obesity is rife. It is a growing health concern worldwide that affects people of all age groups. But what is obesity? It is defined as an excessive accumulation of body fat that poses health risks. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies obesity based on Body Mass Index (BMI), where a BMI of 30 or more is considered obese. Due to sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy eating habits and genetic factors, obesity has become a serious issue with severe physical and psychological repercussions. Let’s discus the ill effects, causes and prevention of obesity as we celebrate the World Obesity Month in March.

Obesity – the root causes

There are various reasons for obesity. However, the primary cause is when calorie intake exceeds energy expenditure. Take a look at what contributes to excessive weight gain:

• Unhealthy Diet – This is probably the most common cause. High consumption of processed foods, sugary beverages, and fast food increases calorie intake significantly, leading to weight gain.
• Lack of Physical Activity – Work pressures and other commitments have led to sedentary lifestyles with minimal exercise. This results in the body storing excess calories as fat.
• Genetic Factors – Some people are genetically predisposed to obesity.
• Medical Conditions – Obesity can also be caused by medical disorders like hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hormonal imbalances.
• Stress and Emotional Eating – Not widely known but stress, anxiety or depression can lead to individuals overeating, leading to weight gain.

Affecting health adversely

Obesity is not an issue that should be taken lightly. More than a cosmetic issue, it significantly impacts physical and mental health. Here’s how:

1. Increased Risk of Chronic Diseases

Obesity is linked to several life-threatening conditions, including:

Heart Disease and Stroke – Excess body fat increases cholesterol levels, raising the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Type 2 Diabetes – Obesity leads to insulin resistance, making blood sugar levels difficult to control.

Hypertension – Increased body weight puts extra strain on the heart, leading to high blood pressure.

2. Joint and Bone Problems

Obesity also gives rise to joint and bone problems as excess weight puts pressure on the joints, leading to arthritis and back pain. Obese individuals are more likely to suffer from mobility issues and decreased quality of life.

3. Respiratory Issues

Breathing difficulties often arise due to obesity. An example is sleep apnea, where breathing stops momentarily during sleep. This condition leads to poor sleep quality, fatigue and an increased risk of heart problems.

4. Mental Health Disorders

Apart from physical issues, obesity has mental repercussions as well as it is often associated with low self-esteem, anxiety and depression. People suffering from obesity often face social stigma, discrimination and body image issues, which give rise to emotional distress.

5. Reduced Life Expectancy

Obesity seems to have a direct link to life expectancy as well. Studies show that obesity shortens lifespan by increasing the risk of various diseases. It also affects overall well-being.

Ways to tackle obesity

As is evident, obesity is a serious disorder that needs to be prevented or managed efficiently. Lifestyle changes are the solution which include:

Healthy Eating Habits – Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains helps maintain a healthy weight.

Regular Exercise – Engaging in physical activities like walking, jogging or yoga can prevent weight gain.

Adequate Sleep – Getting enough rest helps regulate metabolism and prevents unhealthy food cravings.

Medical Consultation – Seeking medical advice for weight management programmes or surgery (in severe cases) can be beneficial.

Don’t wait to reduce weight

Weight management is the need of the day. Obesity is a serious health issue that requires immediate attention. A healthy lifestyle, physical activity and balanced diet goes a long way to prevent obesity and its associated risks. Early intervention is key as it can significantly improve overall well-being and quality of life.