What is obesity?
Obesity is characterized by having an excessive amount of body fat. More specifically, it refers to having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. BMI is calculated based on a person's weight and height.
Obesity happens when a person consumes more calories through food and drink than their body burns through normal metabolic and physical activities. The excess calories are stored as fat, leading to weight gain over time.
Some key facts about obesity:
- Obesity increases the risk for other health issues like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, mental illness, and certain types of cancers.
- Genetics, lifestyle factors, certain medications, and other disease processes can predispose someone to weight gain and obesity.
- Losing just 5-10% of body weight can lead to major health improvements by lowering blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
So how do you know if you are obese and what can you do about it? Here are some key steps:
- Calculate your BMI - This will tell you if you fall in the obese category based on your height and weight. There are easy online BMI calculators you can use.
- Talk to your doctor - They can properly diagnose obesity, rule out any underlying conditions, and create a treatment plan suited to your health needs.
- Improve your diet - Reduce calorie intake focusing on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. Avoid processed foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats.
- Increase physical activity - Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week to help burn calories and improve health. Start slow if new to exercising.
- Consider weight loss medications or procedures - If other measures have not worked, there are prescription medications, implants, and even surgeries that can aid weight loss for some people under medical supervision.
Struggling with obesity? The professionals at Balance Hormone Center can help. Their integrated plans combine hormone optimization, customized nutrition plans, fitness guidance, and more to help clients achieve sustainable weight loss and better health.
I hope this gives a helpful overview of what defines obesity and how it can be addressed through lifestyle changes and medical treatment if necessary. Let me know if you have any other questions!