Obesity- Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

2022-06-15 18:34:44

Obesity is defined as excess or abnormal fat accumulation that may increase the risk of other health problems. There can be several reasons for being overweight such as a person can be overweight from extra muscle or water, as well as from excess fat.

Obesity is mainly a lifestyle disorder caused by an unhealthy diet, lack of sleep and exercise, and in some cases, it develops due to genetic factors or pre-existing health disorders.

Symptoms of Obesity

Obese people can face several symptoms like-

• Breathing disorders (sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

• Depression

• Diabetes

• Cancer

• Gallbladder or liver disease

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

• Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

• Osteoarthritis

• Stroke

• Coronary artery (heart) disease

• Reproductive system disorders

What causes Obesity?

For most people, obesity occurs gradually by taking in more calories than what is needed by the body.

Consuming more calories than what your body can burn leads to obesity. This is due to the unused calories stored in the body. Obesity can be caused by-

• Eating more food than your body needs.

• Drinking too much alcohol.

• Absence of physical activities in daily life.

Medical problems or treatments that can cause weight gain, includes-

• Inactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).

• Medications such as birth control pills, antidepressants and antipsychotics.

• Stress, mood swings, lack of motivation, changing emotions or poor access to healthy options can cause people to consume more calories than they need.

How is Obesity Diagnosed?

Body Mass Index (BMI)

• It is difficult to measure body fat directly. Your doctor will measure your height and weight to calculate your BMI and determine whether you are overweight or obese. Body mass index (BMI) is a popular method for determining a healthy weight.
• BMI calculates a healthy weight based on your height. Since both height and weight are taken into account, this is a more accurate guide than just weight.

How to calculate BMI

• Multiply your weight by 318.875 kgs.

• Divide the answer by your height in inches.

• Divide that answer by your height in inches again.

Then, see what category your BMI falls into-

• Underweight- Below 18.5

• Healthy-18.5-24.9

• Overweight-25.0-29.9

• Obese-30.0-39.9

• Morbidly obese- Over 40

Other tests

Your doctor may also measure your blood pressure, blood sugar and lipid (cholesterol) levels to assess your risk for other obesity-related conditions.

Treatment for Obesity

Try to focus on weight loss methods that can be achieved by-

• Consuming less calories

• Doing more activities and sports

Practices and therapies for weight loss are-

Diet-A manageable weight loss goal is 1 to 2 pounds per week. Fat has more calories per gram as carbohydrates or protein. If you exclude carbohydrates, you should still limit your fat intake. Choose healthy fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated oils.

Regular exercise-To lose weight effectively, most people need 60 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, most days of the week. Often take the stairs instead of lifts or escalators.

Surgery-In general, weight loss surgery (bariatric surgery) may be considered if your BMI is 40 or more, or your BMI is 30-35 or more and you have at least one medical condition directly related to obesity.

Medications- Certainmedicines like Adipex-P, Phentermine, Topamax, Topiramate and Contrave are effective in weight loss. Note- Do not take any medicines without consulting a doctor as it may lead to certain side effects.

Home Remedies for Obesity

• Apple cider vinegar-

Apple cider vinegar is a rich source of acetic acid which has anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity properties that promotes weight loss. Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a glass of warm water, Mix well and add a little honey. Drink this twice a day.

• Green tea-

Green tea is a rich source of catechins and caffeine and plays an important role in weight loss. Add a teaspoon of green tea in a cup of hot water. Soak for 5 to 7 minutes and strain. Consume it twice to thrice daily.

• Black pepper-

Black pepper contains a compound called piperine, which gives it a pungent taste. Piperine has fat-reducing and lipid-lowering properties, which can help you lose weight.  Add a teaspoon of powdered black pepper to your tea, salad, or other dish.

• Cranberry juice-

Cranberry juice is a rich source of antioxidants that help flush toxins from your body and boost your metabolism. Thus, it can help promote weight loss. Drink a glass of cranberry juice 2 to 3 times a day.

• Garlic-

Garlic has anti-obesity properties that can help you lose weight naturally. Add one to two teaspoons of grated garlic to dishes.

• Yogurt-

Yogurt improves your digestive system and can help increase your metabolism. Thus, it facilitates weight loss. Consume a bowl of yogurt once a day.

• Curry leaves-

Curry leaves lowers your cholesterol and triglyceride levels and helps you lose weight naturally. Take 7-8 curry leaves and consume them on an empty stomach in the morning.

• Ginger-

Ginger increases metabolism and reduces hunger. It also increases thermogenesis which helps burn excess fat. Add a teaspoon of grated ginger into a glass of hot water. Soak for 5-7 minutes and strain. Add some honey to the ginger tea and mix well. Drink it before it gets cold.

When to see a doctor?

If you are concerned about your weight related health problems, ask your doctor about managing obesity. Your doctor can evaluate your health risks and discuss your weight loss options. A dietician can also help you manage your meal plan for optimum intake of nutrients and avoid food that leads to weight gain.