About
Obesity occurs when the body has accumulated too much body fat. When an individual’s ideal body weight based on age, gender and height is greater than 30 percent they may be obese. Being overweight may not mean that you are obese. You may be overweight from extra muscles or having bigger bones. Obesity is not solely a cosmetic problem.
Medical science has clearly indicated that it is a critical health concern. According to the National Institutes of Health, obesity is the second-leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Statistics demonstrate that the life expectancy of a severely overweight person is dramatically shorter than that of an individual who is at a normal weight. Additionally, there are risks of developing heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, orthopedic problems and depression associated with severe obesity.
Types
- Severe obesity - A body weight of 75 pounds or more above the ideal weight, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or greater.
- Morbidly obese – A body weight of 75 pounds or more above the ideal weight, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or greater.
Symptoms
- A body weight of 75 pounds or more above the ideal weight.
- A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or greater.
Since BMI is one method to determine whether you are overweight and maybe obese it is best to talk to your primary care physician about your weight and weight-related health conditions.
Risk Factors & Prevention
You are at a greater risk for obesity if you:
- Over eating or have an unhealthy diet.
- Drinking too much alcohol.
- Are inactive or are not get enough exercise.
- Smoke.
- Are stressed.
- Have depression.
- Do not get enough sleep.
- Have an underactive thyroid gland.
- Were pregnant and are having difficulty loss weight after your baby is born.
- Are female and have reached menopause.
- Are taking medications that have side effects of weight gain.
Follow Up Care
Dietary Guidelines