Obesity is a chronic medical condition characterized by excess body fat, which increases the risk of serious health problems.
It is usually assessed using the Body Mass Index (BMI), with a BMI of 30 or higher classified as obesity.
Obesity is not just caused by overeating; it is a complex condition influenced by biological, behavioral and environmental factors.
What is obesity?
Obesity occurs when calorie intake consistently exceeds the body’s energy needs, leading to fat accumulation. Over time, this excess fat disrupts normal metabolic processes and contributes to inflammation, insulin resistance and hormonal imbalance.
The condition increases the risk of conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, joint disease and certain cancers.
Why Does Obesity Happen?
Several factors contribute to the development of obesity:
- Unhealthy food habitsincluding a high intake of processed and high-calorie foods
- Sedentary lifestylewith significantly less physical activity
- Genetic predispositionaffects metabolism and fat storage
- Hormonal imbalancessuch as insulin resistance or thyroid disorders
- Psychological factorsincluding stress, emotional eating and sleep deprivation
- Certain medicationssuch as corticosteroids or antidepressants
These factors often work together, making obesity difficult to manage without guidance.
Treatment and Management of Obesity:
The treatment of obesity focuses on long-term lifestyle modification and medical intervention if necessary.
- Dietary changesby having balanced, nutrient-rich meals
- Regular physical activitydesigned to meet individual capabilities and health status
- Behavioral therapyto address eating patterns and emotional triggers
- Medicinesprescribed in specific cases to promote weight loss
- Bariatric surgeryfor severe obesity when other treatments fail
Obesity is a complex but treatable medical condition.
It is not a failure on your part, nor your fault, as some people might say. Early intervention and treatment strategies can significantly improve health outcomes and quality of life for people with obesity.
