Dealing with Obesity

You are at risk of developing obesity if you carry excess weight compared to what is appropriate for your age, sex, and height. If your weight affects your health, you can consult Dr. Rohit Suri, an expert in obesity management. A doctor should suggest having a Body Mass Index (BMI) test which combines height and weight measurements to indicate if a person is obese or not. If your BMI index is above 25, you have excess weight, but over 30 indicate signs of obesity. Obesity results in specific health issues such as arthritis, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and other forms of cancers.

What Causes Obesity?

Overeating Calories

If one consumes a lot of calories – more than they use – the extra calories can lead to weight gain, and continued consumption of calories eventually leads to obesity. Foods that have a lot of calories and put you at the risk for weight gain and obesity include:

·       Fast foods

·       Fatty and processed meat

·       Dairy products

·       Fried foods

·       Foods with added sugars

·       Canned foods with hidden sugars

·       Soft drinks

·       Highly processed food such as bread and bagels

Leading a Sedentary Life

The less you move around, the fewer calories you burn and the more likely you are to gain weight if the calories consumed is more than what you burn. Physical activities affect your hormones which affect how the body processes food. Studies indicate that movement helps regulate the levels of insulin in the body, therefore, preventing illnesses such as type 2 diabetes.

Some of the activities that are attributed to a sedentary habit include:

·       Working in an office space rather than doing manual work

·       Playing games on the computer instead of doing physical activities

·       Traveling by car over shorter distances instead of walking or cycling

Not Sleeping Well

Missing sleep is a risk factor that can make you gain weight. Sleep deprivation can change a person’s hormones, which may increase their appetite. Little sleep can decrease the production of leptin, which is an appetite-suppressing hormone.  

How to Treat Obesity

Start by altering your diet, consuming fewer calories, and practicing meal-replacement to help you with weight loss. Ensure that you exercise and get active daily to burn some calories. You can also use prescription weight loss medication, and sometimes you can opt for weight loss surgery.

Lifestyle Measures to Maintain Weight Loss

Set realistic goals, like losing one or maybe two pounds in a week. Adhere to a healthy diet, ensure that you eat a variety of foods that include fruits and whole grains. Eat small portions, and ensure that you avoid the intake of processed sugar while also drinking enough water. Get enough sleep, monitor weight loss, and maintain frequent visits to the healthcare provider that can help you in the weight loss journey.

Conclusion

Obesity can result from consuming too many calories, having a sedentary lifestyle, and getting too little sleep. You can consult with a doctor who might help you monitor your weight loss journey. Ensure that you have a realistic weight loss plan that incorporates exercising, eating healthy, and drinking plenty of water.