The days when obesity was considered a socially acceptable state along with being a symbol of prosperity and well being are long gone and in today’s world a toned muscular body with zero fat is the norm.
Obesity is defined as an abnormal amount of fat on the body. The term is usually not implied unless the individual is from 20% to 30% over average weight for his or her own age, sex, and height.
The cause of obesity is not very well known but certain studies have proven that it is the direct result of an imbalance between food eaten and energy expended, but the true underlying cause is difficult to diagnose and treat. Certain studies have also found a prevalence of obesity among certain families and this goes to show that there could be some hereditary predisposition to obesity. Some very recent speculation also suggested that obesity could some how be linked to a virus and was in fact a viral infection but that has not been widely accepted as sufficient evidence is not yet available. Prophylaxis in children of families with the tendency towards obesity in the form of establishing moderate eating and an exercise regime along with dieting has been found to be highly beneficial.
The diet of an obese individual should be less than maintenance requirements, but all the other essential nutrients should be included. Losing weight by fasting is effective but is not recommended unless done under strict medical and nursing supervision.
Obesity apart from being esthetically awkward and a source of constant humiliation and inferiority complex in society also happens to be one of the leading causes of heart disease, diabetes, sexual dysfunction, obstructive sleep apnea as well as orthopedic problems. Obesity is determined by calculating the body mass index of a person this is a ratio of height and weight and the normal range is between 18- 24kg/m2. Obesity happens to be one of the leading preventable causes of a chronic debilitating illness as well as death.
In a recent study some of the causes of obesity apart from the above mentioned were also found to be certain endocrinological disease, certain psychiatric disorders as well pregnancies at later stages as well as assortative mating that is obese couples having an offspring sometimes insufficient sleep and also cessation of smoking were found to be causative.
Management of obesity actually entails many different aspects. Starting from a lifestyle change that is letting go of a sedentary lifestyle, increased exercise and a more intensive cardiovascular training. Then a proper diet set by a nutritionist which contains the correct mix of carbohydrates, proteins, fats and fiber is imperative a low carb and low fat diet is the rule among obese patients.
Certain diet pills have been found to be quite effective but seeing as they are stimulant based have been found to be quite addictive and subsequent increased dosage was required among certain patients. At the end of the day it is your will power that shall be your strongest ally in your battle against obesity.
