Excessive or abnormal fat or cholesterol accumulation in the body that may harm health is termed obesity. Scientifically, it is defined as a person with a BMI of 30 or over carrying excessive weight. The diagnosis of overweight and obesity is measured by measuring one’s weight and height and calculating the body mass index (BMI).
BMI weight (kg)/height² (m²).
According to the World Health Organization, overweight and obesity are separately defined for children and adults.
Adults
- A person with a BMI greater than 25 is considered overweight.
- A person with a BMI of 30 or greater than 30 is considered obese.
Children under the age of 5 years
- Children under five years old with weight-for-height greater than two standard deviations are considered overweight.
- Children with weight-for-height greater than three standard deviations are considered obese.
Children with age between 5 – 19 years
- Children with a BMI for age more significant than one standard deviation are considered overweight.
- Children with a BMI for age more significant than two standard deviations are considered obese.
Some key facts about regarding obesity:
- 1/8 people were living their life with it
- Since 1990, worldwide adult obesity has more than doubled, and adolescent obesity has almost quadrupled.
- 2.5 billion adults were overweight, out of which 890 million were living with it.
- 43% of Adults aged 18 were overweight, out of which 18% were living with it.
- 37 million children under the age of 5 years were overweight.
- Over 390 million Children aged 5 to 19 years and adolescents were overweight, out of which 160 million were living with obesity.
Causes of Overweight and Obesity:
Unbalanced energy intake(diet) and energy expenditure(physical activity) result in obesity (diet > physical activities).
There are several reasons for obesity and overweight. Here are some reasons of this.
Decreased level of Physical Activities
Decreased levels of physical activity in people can lead to a decrease in energy expenditure; if a decline in energy intake does not balance this, it will result in positive energy balance and weight gain.
Intake of Foods and Beverages High in Fats
Intake of foods and beverages high in fats also results in obesity and overweight. Some foods rich in fats are as under
fast foods.
- fatty and processed meats
- fried foods, such as french fries
- Dairy products, i.e. sweets
- Foods with extra added sugar, such as cakes
- Foods containing hidden sugars, i.e. ketchup
- Juices, sodas, and alcoholic drinks are high in sugar
People consuming foods consisting of fruits, vegetables and water are still at risk for obesity if they overeat.
Decrease in Sleep Times
Decreased sleep times can also lead to increased weight and obesity( researchers showed that in the U.K., 28000 children and 15000 adults efficiently increased their weight gain and obesity due to sleep deprivation).
If a person does not sleep enough, they produce ghrelin (a hormone that stimulates appetite). In the meantime, lack of sleep leads to lower leptin production (a hormone that suppresses appetite).
High Fructose Intake
A 2012 study shows that High fructose intake can alter the metabolism of sugar and lipids, which in turn causes fatty liver and metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome comprises type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure. People with it are more likely to suffer from metabolic syndrome.
Medicine may Lead to Weight Gain
Some medications can also lead to weight gain and lead to obesity. Here is a list of medicines leading to obesity and weight gain.
- Glucocorticoids for rheumatoid arthritis
- Hypoglycemia medications, such as tolbutamide
- Anticonvulsants and mood stabilizers, especially gabapentin
- Atypical antipsychotics, especially olanzapine, quetiapine, and risperidone
- Some antidepressants
Genetical Reason
Fat mass (faulty gene) and obesity-associated related genes (FTO) are also responsible for some cases of obesity. FTO gene controls the release and production of ghrelin and leptin (imbalance of these hormones leads to obesity)
Obesity and overweight are more prevalent in the U.S. and globally. As mentioned above, many factors lead to obesity. One must take care of one’s diet, medication, daily routine, etc, to avoid obesity and stay healthy. However, genetics cause obesity, and one may find it harder to maintain a moderate weight.
Prevention
Several ways to prevent obesity include a healthy lifestyle, such as a balanced diet, physical activities, and enough sleep.
Nutritional Well-being
Nutritional well-being not only means a short-term change in diet but also points toward a sustainable, balanced diet. We are reducing food intake with high calories and low nutrient content and increasing food intake with low calories and high nutrient content.
Stress Management
Stress can be a cause of significant obesity, and it may be an indirect effect of obesity. It may decrease sleep times, cause high food intake, and cause hormonal imbalances in the body, leading to obesity.
Quality Sleep Time
Quality sleep time is significant for good health. It can keep one from being overweight and obese.
The recommended sleep duration for people of different ages is as below.
- 10–13 hours for children 3–5 years old, including naps
- 9–12 hours for children 6–12 years old
- 8–10 hours for adolescents, 13–18 years old
- 7 hours or more for adults,18–60 years old
Physical Activity
Physical activity is as essential as oxygen for life to avoid obesity and overweight. Children and older persons should exercise for at least 1 hour. 2.5 hours of moderate or 1.25 hours of vigorous exercise per week is recommended for adults.
Keep a Medical Checkup Over
It is recommended that people check their BMI once a year. If they note changes in their body weight, they should consult a doctor for a checkup. Doctors can advise you to take weight loss medication. One must use weight loss medication with a doctor’s prescription to ensure safety.
Conclusion
Obesity( a BMI of 30 or higher) results from an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, often caused by decreased physical activity, poor diet, sleep deprivation, certain medications, and genetics. It can be prevented by maintaining a balanced diet, regular physical activity, quality sleep, and managing stress. Yearly medical checkups by medical professionals are recommended to monitor BMI and ensure safe weight loss or gain practices.