What is obesity
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity is the abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a health risk.
It is measured by body mass index (BMI).
BMI = Weight (kg)/ Height2 (m2) . The unit is kg/m2
A person who has a body mass index over 25 kg/m2 is considered overweight, and over 30 kg/m2 is obese.
The Global Burden of Disease records that this is endemic, with over 4 million people dying each year as a result of being overweight or obese in 2017.
What are the causes of obesity?
Like anorexia, obesity is the other side of the double burden of poor nutrition.
The leading cause of obesity is the imbalance in calories consumed and the amount burned through activity.
Excess calories consumed are stored as fat in the body, which causes weight gain.
Other contributing factors include:
Dietary choices
Sedentary lifestyle with little to no physical activity
Genetics
Stress, anxiety, and depression which lead to emotional eating
Underlying medical conditions, e.g., polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hyperthyroidism
Use of certain medications, e.g., corticosteroids
Health risks associated with obesity
Obesity poses a significant risk to your health. Some health complications associated with obesity include:
Cardiovascular disease
Diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes mellitus
Musculoskeletal disease
Certain types of cancer like breast, colorectal, esophageal, and kidney
Obesity also affects your appearance, leading to low self-esteem and depression.
Prevention and management
Managing and preventing obesity requires lifestyle changes.
Here are some tips that will help:
Increase your consumption of fruits and vegetables
Opt for whole grains and fibre-rich options
Incorporate proteins that have low amounts of saturated fats, e.g., lean meats, fish into your diet
Cut down your intake of processed, fatty, and sugary foods.
Stay hydrated
Practice portion control. Eat small meals regularly at frequent intervals.
Get enough sleep
Engage in regular physical activity
If you are struggling with obesity or concerned about your weight, feel free to seek professional help.
Your healthcare provider and registered dietitian will provide personalised guidance and support.
