Obesity is a chronic health condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Having an increased body weight can lead to a wide range of health problems impacting both physical and mental well-being.
Health Problems from Obesity
Many health conditions can be worsened by obesity, and weight loss can improve overall health and quality of life.
Cardiovascular Disease
Being overweight and obese are significant risk factors for cardiovascular health, including heart disease. A higher body weight can lead to fatty deposits building up in arteries, which, when blocked, can lead to a heart attack.
The excess body fat we carry can cause the heart to work overtime, leading to high blood pressure. Excess weight can also increase the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Additional strain on the heart can also lead to heart failure over time. Lifestyle changes such as healthy, mindful eating and exercise will be needed to help manage heart disease.
Type 2 Diabetes
People with obesity are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which can cause worsening of the condition. Obesity is linked to insulin resistance. This is due to increased fat leading to an inflammatory response in the body, which in turn makes the cells around the body more sensitive to insulin. The resistance over time can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes.
A chronic condition increases the risk of developing kidney damage, nerve damage, and sometimes vision problems. By reducing weight, insulin sensitivity can improve, and so can the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Joint and Musculoskeletal issues
Obesity increases the risk of stress on joints, leading to the breakdown of cartilage in weight-bearing joints. This commonly occurs in the knees and hips and is a common side effect of obesity. The excess body weight can contribute to back and joint pain, impacting quality of life.
Respiratory Problems
Weight gain or obesity can impair lung function and can cause conditions such as sleep apnea and asthma. Sleep apnea is disturbed breathing during sleep, which can lead to fatigue and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Obesity can worsen asthma symptoms and reduce asthma treatments.
Digestive issues
Having a high body mass index (BMI) can increase the risk of various digestive problems. Excess abdominal fat can put pressure on the stomach, leading to acid reflux and heartburn. A higher weight ratio increases the likelihood of developing gallstones, which can cause pain and discomfort.
Individuals with excess weight can develop fatty liver disease. Individuals with obesity can progress to liver inflammation or scarring.
Cancer
Obesity increases the risk of developing certain types of cancers, such as breast cancer, colorectal cancer, or endometrial cancer. Excess weight can lead to hormonal imbalances that increase the risk of uterine cancer and chronic inflammation.
Mental health concerns
Mental health and emotional well-being can be impacted by obesity. The relationship between mental health and obesity seems to be one of contributing factors to one another. It is hard to pinpoint which one causes which condition.
In concerned individuals, body image can play a big role. They can feel embarrassed and judged on how they look and how society perceives obesity. This can lead to feelings of low self-worth, low self-esteem, and increased anxiety.
Individuals who feel they aren’t at a healthy weight can experience body image concerns, contributing to disordered eating and negative mental health outcomes. It is important to seek help from a healthcare professional if you think your weight and mental health are interlinked.
Hormonal Issues
Obesity can disrupt hormonal balance and impact reproductive health. Infertility can be experienced by obese individuals as it can interfere with ovulation in women and reduce sperm production in men.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can often be exacerbated by obesity, and so can the risk of developing gestational diabetes or preeclampsia, for complications.
Kidney Disease or Immune system dysfunction
Being overweight is a risk factor for chronic kidney disease, partly due to its association with hypertension and diabetes. Weight can lead to protein levels in the urine.
Chronic inflammation with obesity can affect immune function, making it more susceptible to infections and illness.
Management of Weight
Losing weight or achieving a healthy BMI can help beat obesity and reduce the risk of developing other conditions.
Managing obesity involves many ways, the most crucial being a healthy and nutritious diet. Healthy Eating is essential in the journey to losing weight: a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins.
Physical activity is also just as crucial in this journey. Individuals should aim for 150 minutes of moderate to intense exercise per week. In addition to diet and physical activity, behavioral counseling and support groups can help address any underlying emotional factors related to weight management.
