What is Obesity?

Obesity is a complex disorder having excess body fat and BMI (body mass index) greater than normal. Nobody intentionally aim to be overweight but unfortunately it has happened. It is one of the biggest health problems in the world as it is associated with several other condition like high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar and poor blood lipid profile. Obese people are at high risk of getting diabetes, heart diseases and osteoarthritis.

Reducing fat continues to be problematic. Sometimes it becomes difficult for you to lose weight despite of doing physical activity and eating in a right manner at that point of time you need to work on yourself then after you will be able to see that obesity is not just about eating to much and exercising little you need to stay positive and motivated and set yourself up for success with some realistic goals

 Yes you heard it right “try to be realistic”. Set some short term goals and believe me short term goals seems more achievable than long term goals. So try to keep things simple and you will achieve your goal one day definitely.

Some Important Causes

Unhealthy Diet

One of the major causes of obesity is eating fast and processed foods like –

Sugary drinks “the liquid calories” drastically increases your total calorie intake.

Pizzas “extremely high in calories” are made with unhealthy ingredients.

Fried foods like French fries and potato chips are said to be highly calories dense.

Processed foods like processed meat and cheese. Studies shows they have higher risk of causing diabetes and heart diseases.

 

Medical Conditions

Sometimes medical reasons also make weight loss difficult-

Polycystic ovarian syndrome

Thyroid disorder

Type 2 diabetes mellitus

Cushing syndrome

Depression- people dealing with depression overeat, which results in obesity

Certain Medications

Yes, mainly steroids, some antidepressants, drugs used to control high blood pressure, antipsychotics and drugs used in the management of seizures can also cause increased body weight.

My advice is to seek help from doctors before taking them.

 

Sedentary Lifestyle

Technology has made us sedentary. That is why we do not get enough physical activity. Nowadays we rely on our cars and bikes even for short trips. We spend are most of the time in front of TV and computer screens, having meals and snacks around the TV and Mobiles and landed up in overeating.

 

Genetics

Here comes the role of heredity some of you says “obesity is in my genes” and “it runs in my family”. Some of you might be right this time because are genes plays a vital role in whether we become obese or not. Studies have shown and scientist believe that person’s genetic makeup may make him or her susceptible to obesity.

Some tips to prevent obesity:

Drink water as much as you can at least 8 to 10 glass a day. You can also have hot water adding a slice of lemon, ginger and mint leaf to give flavor.

 

Try to eat healthy foods in appropriate portion to improve your health condition choose healthier ways of cooking such as boiling and steaming.When it comes to breakfast make wise decisions choose breakfast cereals that are high in fibre and low in added sugar such as oats.

 

Try to eat lighter meals in dinner such as green leafy vegetables and salads.

Eat fruits and have fruit juices like pomegranate, pineapple and blueberry juices.

 

Be physically active – yes, you need to move more and sit less. Exercise regularly, be consistent. Track your BMI and monitor your weight regularly.

 

Consult with your doctor regarding any underlying medical condition and treat accordingly.

 

Change your lifestyle – as obesity is a chronic condition and there is no “quick fix” solution or any shortcut for all obese individuals. So try to alter your bad eating and activity habits. Make food diary, BMI charts, do visit your doctor for follow ups, and seek fitness expert’s help.

Dr. Komal Chaudhary

Consultant Physician

New Delhi