Lifestyle changes: Risk Factors of Obesity

December 7, 2022

The main factor contributing to obesity is an imbalance between calories burned and calories consumed. However, the condition is caused by a variety of risk factors. Poor eating habits and insufficient exercise are said to be the main causes of obesity. When a person is obese, they either have an unhealthy amount of body fat or an improper distribution of it. It increases the chances of various health issues. Excess body fat may actually put strain on the bones & organs. Additionally, it alters the body’s metabolism and hormones in intricate ways, increasing inflammation.

Table of Contents

Some of the risk factors of Obesity are mentioned below:

1. Type 2 Diabetes

When your blood sugar is higher than normal, type 2 diabetes develops. Other health concerns like heart disease, nerve damage, stroke, renal disease, and visual problems may develop as a result over time. If you are obese, decreasing merely 5 to 7 percent of your body weight and engaging in regular, moderate exercise may be able to delay or prevent the development of type 2 diabetes.

2. Heart disease

Obese people tend to have a higher risk of developing heart disease. The arteries that carry blood to the heart may develop fatty deposits over time. Obese people have blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar levels that are over normal, all of which are risk factors for heart disease. A heart attack may result from arteries that are narrow. Also, strokes can occur as a result of blood clots in small arteries.

3. Sleep Apnea

An individual with sleep apnea may briefly stop breathing while they are asleep. An increased chance of developing sleep apnea exists in overweight and obese individuals. This is because their necks often store more fat, which causes the airway to become smaller. Snoring and sleep time breathing issues might result from a narrower airway. By losing weight, especially the fat in the neck area, one can lower the risk of sleep apnea.

4. High Blood Pressure

The body’s extra fat tissue needs additional nutrition and oxygen. More blood will need to be pumped through your blood arteries to the increased fat tissue. Your heart will therefore have to exert more effort to pump blood throughout your body. Your arteries’ walls are under more pressure because of the increased blood flow. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is the name for this additional pressure. Your heart and arteries might get damaged over time by excessive blood pressure.

5. Liver Disease

A liver condition known as fatty liver disease or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) can develop in obese people. When too much fat accumulates in the liver, this occurs. The extra fat can harm the liver or result in cirrhosis, which is the growth of scar tissue. Although fatty liver disease typically doesn’t show any symptoms, it can eventually cause liver failure. The condition cannot be cured or managed other than by dieting, exercising, and abstaining from alcohol.

6. Gall Bladder Disease

Bile is a substance that is stored in the gallbladder and moved to the small intestine after digestion. Your bile aids with fat digestion. Gallstones are more likely to develop if you are obese. Bile builds up and solidifies in the gallbladder, resulting in gallstones. People who are obese may have bile that contains higher levels of cholesterol or large, inefficient gallbladders, both of which increase the risk of gallstones. Gallstones can cause discomfort and necessitate surgery. A diet rich in fibre and good fats may aid in the prevention of gallstones. Refined grains, such as white rice, bread, and pasta, should be avoided.

Lifestyle changes to avoid Obesity risk

You can lessen your risk for several of these illnesses, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes, by losing as little as 5% of your body weight.

You can lose weight gradually over time with the help of a combination of food and exercise. There’s no need to entirely change your way of life. Consistency and continuing to make healthy decisions are crucial.

Aim for 150 minutes or more per week of moderate aerobic activity for exercise. This can involve taking a brisk walk; simply 30 minutes of daily walking will help you reach this objective. After you get the hang of it, try increasing your weekly exercise time to 300 minutes.

Here are some of the tips for healthier eating habits:

Your plate should have half veggies
Whole grains like whole wheat bread, brown rice, and oatmeal should be substituted with unrefined grains like white bread, pasta, and rice.
Consume lean proteins such as soy, beans, lean fish, and lean meat.
Reduce your intake of fried foods, quick food, and sweet snacks.
Do not drink sugary beverages like soda and juice.
Avoid intake of alcohol.

Conclusion

There is a wide range of reasons for obesity. If any of the aforementioned describes you or a loved one, make a decision to take action to address the issue. Keep in mind that even a little lifestyle modification to your daily routine and diet can add up over time. The potential for longer-term wellness is always worth the effort.

FAQs

1. How does obesity affect the skin?

Sebaceous and sweat glands are impacted by obesity, which also alters the lymphatic and circulatory systems.

2. What are the ways to maintain healthy lifestyle?

Watch your weight, avoid unhealthy food, stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and avoid alcohol in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

3. What are the health risks of being overweight?

Some of the health risks are High blood pressure (hypertension), High levels of triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, or high levels of LDL cholesterol (dyslipidemia), diabetes type 2 and cardiovascular disease.

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