Obesity is a complex medical condition characterized by increased body fat that can negatively affect health. It is often confused with being overweight, but the two are not the same. Being overweight carries a higher risk of serious diseases.
Excess weight, which can be due to muscle, bone, or water, obesity is primarily defined by excess stored fat. The World Health Organization classifies obesity as a global epidemic due to its increasing prevalence worldwide.
Causes of obesity
The causes of obesity can be multiple and complex. This condition is not solely due to excessive calorie consumption, but rather to a combination of genetic, behavioral, environmental, and hormonal factors.
Genetic factors
Genetic predisposition can significantly influence how the body stores fat, regulates appetite, or metabolizes food. Although genes do not completely determine the development of obesity, they can be an important risk factor, especially when combined with the modern environment that contributes to the prevalence of overweight and obesity in this context.
Eating habits
High calorie consumption, especially from processed foods, sugary drinks, and foods high in saturated fat and refined carbohydrates, has been shown to be key to the development of obesity. An unbalanced diet contributes significantly to the development of obesity, especially in an environment where fast food is easy and affordable.
Sedentary lifestyle
The decline in physical activity, both in adults and children, is directly associated with increased body fat. The current lifestyle, marked by long hours in front of screens and lack of exercise, significantly increases the risk of obesity in the population.
Hormonal and psychological aspects
Hormonal imbalances such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s syndrome may be implicated in the development of obesity. Furthermore, emotional disorders such as anxiety, stress, and depression also affect lifestyle and our relationship with food, leading to compulsive eating behaviors.
Consequences of obesity
Obesity has become a global public health problem, not only due to its high prevalence but also due to the emergence of multiple associated diseases. Among the most common are:
Cardiovascular health
Obesity is a major risk factor for high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, and heart failure. Obesity and abdominal fat accumulation are directly associated with metabolic dysfunction.
Type 2 diabetes
There is a clear association between obesity and the development of insulin resistance. This link is so close that the terms “obesity and diabetes” are frequently used in clinical studies, reflecting how one condition exacerbates the other. Type 2 diabetes can be a major trigger for health problems.
Joint problems
Excess weight puts additional pressure on joints, especially the knees, hips, and spine, increasing the incidence of arthritis, joint wear, and functional limitations in overweight and obese patients.
Emotional and social impact
Obesity, in the population, is related to the presence of risk factors. In many cultures, obesity is a source of social stigma, which can lead to low self-esteem, discrimination, isolation, and psychological disorders. This impact not only affects people’s quality of life but can also perpetuate the cycle of obesity.
Types of obesity
Obesity is not a homogeneous condition. There are different types, depending on the distribution of body fat or the population group affected.
Visceral obesity
Fat accumulated in the abdomen and internal organs. It is associated with increased cardiovascular risk.
Morbid obesity
BMI over 40. Represents a serious health hazard.
Sarcopenic obesity
Combination of high fat mass and decreased muscle mass.
Childhood obesity
Increased prevalence of obesity in children, with serious future consequences.
Childhood obesity: causes and risks
Obesity among children and adolescents has increased alarmingly in recent years. The causes of this trend include the rising prevalence of overweight and obesity.
- Bad eating habits from an early age.
- Lack of regular physical activity.
- Influence of the family and social environment.
Children with obesity are more likely to develop obesity in adulthood, as well as suffer from cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and emotional problems from an early age.
The approach must be comprehensive, involving the entire family in the lifestyle changes necessary to reverse this trend.
Diagnosis of obesity
The clinical diagnosis of obesity is based on objective tools such as the assessment of the presence of body fat.
- Body mass index (BMI) is calculated by dividing weight in kg by height in meters squared. A BMI greater than 30 indicates obesity.
- Abdominal circumference: Evaluates the amount of fat stored in the abdomen. Values greater than 102 cm in men and 88 cm in women suggest metabolic risk.
- Laboratory studies that analyze the presence of metabolic factors related to obesity. In endocrinology, to rule out hormonal causes.
Treatments and approaches to obesity
Treatment for obesity depends on the degree, causes, and associated conditions. There is no single solution, but there are effective combined strategies.
Diet and exercise
Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, combined with regular physical activity, is the foundation of treatment. These lifestyle changes help control weight and improve overall health. In this blog, we show you the importance of a balanced diet and how meal plans can help prevent disease.
Lifestyle changes
Changing daily habits is crucial: getting adequate sleep, reducing stress, avoiding alcohol, and quitting smoking are necessary measures to achieve sustained weight loss, which can be associated with obesity.
Medication or surgery
In extreme cases, when obesity is severe or there are comorbidities, pharmacological treatments or bariatric surgery may be used. These options should be carefully evaluated by specialists and under medical supervision.
Obesity prevention
Preventing obesity is more effective and less expensive than treating it. To achieve this, a comprehensive approach is essential:
Nutritional education
Promoting conscious eating from childhood and reducing the consumption of processed foods is essential for prevention.
Regular physical activity
Promoting daily physical activity to combat obesity and health in children and adults helps maintain a healthy energy balance.
Healthy family and social environment
The influence of the environment is key. Homes and communities that promote healthy habits have a lower risk of obesity. It is essential to create public policies aimed at improving the lifestyles of the general population.
Conclusion
Obesity represents the association between overweight and obesity. It is one of the most important health challenges of the 21st century. It is the consequence of multiple factors and, at the same time, is a risk factor for many serious diseases, especially in the presence of obesity. Identifying the causes, addressing the presence of risk factors, improving lifestyle choices, promoting education, and seeking timely medical help are key to combating it.
Addressing this condition requires personal, family, and social commitment. Only through combined efforts will it be possible to reduce the number of people affected and improve the quality of life for millions around the world. Call us at (407) 978-6605 or visit our website to easily schedule your consultation and enjoy the services we offer or visit our clinic.
