Obesity Basics

Obesity is all too common in the United States, and it causes a number of health problems. If you are struggling to find a treatment for this condition, it helps to understand how the condition develops and how it affects your body.

Defining Obesity

Obesity occurs when a person is carrying too much body fat. A patient is considered obese if his or her body mass index is 30 or higher. To calculate your body mass index, or BMI, divide your weight in kilograms by your height in meters.

How Does it Happen?

In most cases, obesity occurs because of a combination of factors. Some of the most common risk factors for the development of obesity include:

  • Age
  • Low socioeconomic status
  • Certain medications
  • Unhealthy diet
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Genetics

Effects of Obesity

Carrying excess weight is hard on the body. People who struggle with obesity may notice that they cannot move around or breathe as well as they used to. Obesity can also cause problems with body image and self-esteem.

Over time, obesity may lead to complications. Some of the most common complications of this condition include osteoarthritis, liver disease, gallbladder disease, cancer, stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.

Treatment for Obesity

Few people remain obese by choice. However, overcoming this condition can be a challenge. If you are obese and would like to lose weight, some of the treatment options you may consider include:

  • Dietary Changes – Restricting your calorie intake on a daily basis can help you lose weight over time. However, you should make sure that you are still eating a balanced diet with enough calories to sustain your body’s essential functions.
  • Exercise – Physical activity burns calories, so exercising on a regular basis can contribute to weight loss. This method works best when used in conjunction with dietary changes.
  • Weight loss surgery – For people who have a BMI greater than 35, weight loss surgery can be beneficial. Several different weight loss surgery options are available, including gastric band, gastric sleeve, and gastric bypass. Each of these options aids in weight loss by restricting the amount of food the person can eat and/or limiting the absorption of food.

How Do I Learn More?

If you think you may be obese, you can learn more about the treatment options above by making an appointment at a weight loss clinic. Please give Long Island Laparoscopic Doctors a call today to get started.