Obesity

Overview

Obesity is a medical condition in which excess body fat has accumulated to the extent that it may have an adverse effect on health. Obesity isn’t just a cosmetic concern. It is a medical problem that increases your risk of other diseases. It is defined by body mass index (BMI) and further evaluated in terms of fat distribution via the waist–hip ratio and total cardiovascular risk factors.

BMI Categories:

Underweight = <18.5

Normal weight = 18.5–24.9

Overweight = 25–29.9

Obesity = BMI of 30 or greater

Body Mass Index (or BMI) is calculated as your weight (in kilograms) divided by the square of your height (in metres)

BMI = kg/m2

Symptoms

Overweight
Shortness of Breath
Binge Eating
Snoring
back and joint pains
low confidence and self esteem
Fatigue

The Health Effects of Obesity

High blood pressure
Dyslipidemia
Type 2 diabetes
Coronary heart disease
Stroke
Gallbladder disease
Osteoarthritis
Sleep apnea and breathing problems
Many types of cancer
Low quality of life
Mental illness such as clinical depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders

Cause

Obesity is generally caused by eating too much and moving too little. If you consume high amounts of energy, particularly fat and sugars, but do not burn off the energy through exercise and physical activity, much of the surplus energy will be stored by the body as fat.
Genetics
Some illnesses like Cushing’s disease, polycystic ovary syndrome, Hypothyroidism.
Some medications like steroids, Diabetes medication and some antidepressants drugs.

Prevention & Management

Obesity is mostly preventable through a combination of social changes and personal choices. Eating a healthy diet and getting more physical activity can help prevent & Manage obesity. Managing obesity is about improving your overall health, not just about losing weight.
Choosing an Eating Plan to Prevent Weight Gain. Diet quality can be improved by reducing the consumption of energy-dense foods, such as those high in fat or sugars, and by increasing the intake of dietary fiber. Restricting certain foods & Making healthier choices can help prevent & Manage obesity.
Self-monitoring.
Treatment of underlying illness if any.