Recognize and Learn to Limit the Effects of Obesity on the Body
Obesity is an all-too-common health condition that has serious downsides. If left untreated, the effects of obesity create problematic and potentially life-threatening health issues. If you or a loved one is at-risk, learn more about this medical condition, what it may do to the body and what to do about it.
What is Obesity?
The World Health Organization defines obesity as “abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health.” Men and women who have a body mass index (BMI) above 30 are categorized as obese, putting them at a higher risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, stroke and some types of cancer.
Like many medical conditions, obesity is treatable. By living a healthy lifestyle, almost anyone can minimize the effects of obesity.
Who is At-Risk of Developing Obesity?
Typically caused by genetic and environmental factors, obesity has become much more common among adults and children in America in the last 30 years. Today, more than 70 million adults in the United States are obese.
Although this health issue affects all Americans, the rise in obesity has particularly impacted communities of color. According to the National Institutes of Health, more than half of black women and almost half of Hispanic women are obese today.
People who develop obesity tend to have one or more of these risk factors:
- Genetic predisposition
- Unhealthy eating habits
- Physical inactivity
- Decreased access to healthy foods and safe places to be active
The Effects of Obesity on Your Health
Obesity is not a problem to be taken lightly. It places a strain on the body and may contribute to many serious diseases and health conditions, including:
- Mortality
- Hypertension
- High Cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Heart Disease
These effects of obesity and others also tend to result in more time and money spent on health care services.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Obesity
Obesity is a treatable medical condition. Healthy behaviors like regular physical activity and healthy eating can reduce the effects of obesity on the body, even if risk factors are present.
The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommends that adults perform at least two and a half hours of moderate-intensity activity and two days of strength training per week.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans emphasizes eating whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, low-fat and fat-free dairy products and drinking water.
A pattern of healthy living will provide both short- and long-term benefits, like preventing chronic diseases, such as Type 2 Diabetes.
Let Us Be Your Guide on the Path to Wellness
Harmony Healthcare Long Island provides primary and preventive health care services and nutrition services to all members of the community. We offer a wide range of high-quality, affordable medical services that can help you learn to practice healthy behaviors that will reduce your risk of feeling the effects of obesity.
