Here at Montes Medical Group, we understand that obesity is much more than a number on the scale. In fact, obesity is a complex medical condition that has a big impact on our overall health and well-being. Defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, obesity is a growing problem in the United States and around the world.
If left untreated, obesity can lead to various chronic diseases, mental health problems, and decreases in our quality of life. This includes health problems such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, depression, and even some forms of cancer. Fortunately, there are many practical ways to prevent and treat diabetes, making it more likely to reduce our risk of developing other health problems or chronic diseases.
Keep reading to learn more about how obesity can impact our well-being along with some methods that are proven to help prevent and manage obesity!
How Obesity Impacts Health
Obesity can make it harder for the body to function properly in a variety of ways. Excess weight takes a toll on our metabolism, joints, mobility, respiratory system, and more. Many chronic diseases are closely linked to obesity and it can also have significant psychological and emotional impacts on individuals.
Chronic Diseases & Obesity
Obesity has previously been linked with the development of various chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, stroke, and certain types of cancer. When the body has excess body fat to manage, it can struggle to maintain insulin levels, healthy blood pressure, normal lipid levels, and low inflammation levels. When these various measures of health spike or fall out of a normal range, chronic diseases become more likely to develop.
Metabolic Problems & Obesity
People with obesity can often also struggle with metabolic syndrome, which is a cluster of risk factors that can make it more likely to develop heart disease or type 2 diabetes. Some signs of metabolic syndrome are:
- Obesity in the abdominal area
- Hypertension or high blood pressure
- Elevated glucose or blood sugar levels
- High cholesterol levels
Joint Pain & Mobility Problems with Obesity
When the body has to carry a lot of excess weight, it takes a toll on our joints. This is especially true for our lower body which is composed of our knees, hips, and lower back. If left untreated, this added joint stress can cause joint pain, osteoarthritis, and lower levels of mobility. With physical movement restricted, people with obesity can find it even more difficult to stay active and shed the extra weight they’ve accumulated.
Mental Health Concerns with Obesity
When a person is obese, strong psychological and emotional effects can take place. This may include lower self-esteem, unhappiness with their body image, depression, and anxiety. There are many societal stigmas associated with obesity and discrimination associated with excess weight is a real concern for obese individuals. These mental health challenges and societal stigmas can cause people with obesity to live more isolated and lonely lives.
Ways to Prevent & Manage Obesity
Fortunately, there are many great ways for people to prevent and manage obesity. By incorporating significant lifestyle changes and seeking support, obesity can be treated effectively. Individuals need to understand that obesity is a real and complex medical condition that requires help from healthcare professionals, registered dietitians or even mental health professionals if needed.
Getting the Right Support
Obesity can be very difficult to treat without a proper support team. Suppose an obese individual is looking to fight their condition. In that case, it is a great idea to reach out to their medical provider, find a highly trained and registered dietitian, and consider working with a therapist to identify any underlying issues that may be involved. By working with a multidisciplinary team, people with obesity can receive much-needed and personalized guidance and education they will need to reach their goals.
Here at Montes Medical Group, our providers are eager to help those interested in losing weight or those who need help managing an existing health condition.
Adopting Healthy Eating Habits
With obesity, it is essential to adopt a balanced and nutritious diet. Breaking unhealthy eating habits can help obese individuals lay a strong foundation that can increase their chances of success. In general, healthy eating habits should include whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Focusing on portion control, eating mindfully, and reducing the consumption of processed foods, sugary beverages, and high-calorie snacks is also critical.
Embracing Physical Activity
Engaging in physical activity can be difficult for obese individuals due to their limited physical capabilities and joint pain. However, many exercise and fitness options can be easier on the joints and provide a good first step for those looking to become more active. For example, going for even a short walk is a great start when trying to get more active. Swimming is also a wonderful exercise that reduces the impact on the joints and lowers the weight load on the body.
Conclusion
In conclusion, people need to understand that obesity is a serious condition that can be treated with the right support and lifestyle changes. It is important to understand the various ways in which obesity impacts our health so we can make healthy choices that reduce our risk of developing additional health problems. With the right approach and a focus on sustainable and healthy lifestyle choices, people with obesity can improve their well-being. Doing so requires patience, consistency, and dedication to a healthy lifestyle.