What Is Obesity?
Obesity is a medical term that is used to describe a person who has a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. This means that a person is considered to be obese if their weight is significantly higher than what is considered to be healthy for their height. According to the World Health Organization, more than 1.9 billion adults worldwide were considered to be overweight in 2016, and of those, more than 650 million were considered to be obese. In the United States, nearly 40 percent of adults were considered to be obese in 2018.
Causes of Obesity
There are a number of factors that can contribute to obesity. The most common cause of obesity is an unhealthy diet, which is often comprised of processed and fast foods that are high in fat and calories. In addition, people who consume large amounts of sugary drinks and alcohol are more likely to be obese. Additionally, not getting enough physical activity is a major cause of obesity. This is due to a combination of lack of exercise and sedentary lifestyles, such as sitting in front of a computer or television for long periods of time. Other potential causes of obesity include genetics, certain medications, and psychological factors.
Effects of Obesity
Being obese can have a number of negative effects on a person's health. For example, obesity can increase a person's risk for certain chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. It can also lead to a decrease in quality of life due to difficulty with physical activity and social interaction. In addition, obese individuals often suffer from depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Finally, obesity can lead to an increased risk of premature death.
Prevention of Obesity
The best way to prevent obesity is to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. This means eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Additionally, individuals should make sure to get adequate amounts of physical activity on a regular basis. Finally, if possible, individuals should try to limit their consumption of processed and fast foods, as well as sugary drinks and alcohol.
Treatments for Obesity
If a person is already obese, there are a number of treatments that can help them to lose weight. The most common treatment is to follow a healthy diet and exercise plan. This can be done with the help of a nutritionist or personal trainer. Additionally, there are a number of medications that can be prescribed to help people lose weight. Finally, there are a number of surgical procedures that can be used to help obese individuals lose weight, such as gastric bypass surgery.
Conclusion
Obesity is a serious and growing problem in the United States and around the world. It can lead to a number of negative health effects, including an increased risk of chronic diseases and premature death. The best way to prevent obesity is to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, and if a person is already obese, there are a number of treatments that can help them to lose weight. It is important to take steps to prevent and treat obesity in order to improve the health of individuals and reduce the burden of chronic disease.