Health Effects Associated With Overweight And Obesity

Updated on May 9, 2022

Besides the emotional problems that come with obesity and being overweight, these conditions often result in many health issues. While overweight is a term that is used for someone who has a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25 or higher, obesity describes a BMI of at least 30. The importance of embracing a healthy weight cannot be disputed.

It is important for those who are overweight and obese to understand the downsides of these conditions to maintain their physical and emotional health. To lend you a hand, this comprehensive guide will look into the health risks of overweight and obesity. Don’t stop reading!

The Health Risks Of Obesity And Overweight

It is important to be aware of the different health risks of being overweight and obese. This section will introduce you to some of these health concerns:

Heart disease

This term is used to describe different issues that can affect the heart. This could include heart failure, heart attack, or abnormal heart rhythm. Besides this, high levels of fats in the blood, high blood pressure, and high levels of glucose can all contribute to the likelihood of heart disease. Blood lipids that you should watch out for include cholesterol and triglycerides. 

This implies that when you lose a certain percent of your weight – often between 5% to 10% – you can lower your risks of having heart disease. For instance, if you weigh 400 pounds, losing 10 percent of your weight implies that you can lose as much as 40 pounds. This can help you improve your blood pressure and blood flow. You can also maintain your cholesterol level.

Gout

This disease affects the joint and it can be a result of a high level of uric acid in your blood. This uric acid can be accumulated in the form of crystals and deposited in the joints. This disease is more common among obese people. Excessive weight increases the likelihood of getting gout.

When there is an abrupt change in weight for a short period, there could be the development of gout. For people with a history of gout, it is best to check up with a doctor regularly to discover the best way to lose weight.

Type 2 Diabetes

This is a disease that is caused by a high level of blood glucose. This is a common disease among obese people. Approximately 8 out of 10 people suffering from obesity have this disease. Over a long period, this high blood sugar level can result in stroke, heart disease, and kidney problems, among other health problems.

To reduce the risks of developing type 2 diabetes, it is important to lose weight, get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and exercise more. To facilitate the latter, some resort to supplements and other drugs that can help in replacing fats and sugar with muscles. You can learn more when you visit https://www.healthstatus.com/keto-diet/shark-tank-keto-drink/, it is worth pointing out that for those who are at risk of type 2 diabetes, losing about 5 to 7 percent of their body weight can help prevent this disease. 

By being physically active, you can control your blood glucose levels. This may just be what you need to reduce the risk of diabetes.

Osteoarthritis

This is a common disease that involves swelling, as well as reduced mobility, in the joints. It is a disease that causes joint pains. Obesity and overweight increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis. Excess weight will apply additional pressure on the cartilages and joints.

Conclusion

Many people often overlook the consequences of obesity and being overweight. Yet, these conditions can pose a serious threat to the overall physical and emotional health, which must not be taken for granted!

+ posts

Throughout the year, our writers feature fresh, in-depth, and relevant information for our audience of 40,000+ healthcare leaders and professionals. As a healthcare business publication, we cover and cherish our relationship with the entire health care industry including administrators, nurses, physicians, physical therapists, pharmacists, and more. We cover a broad spectrum from hospitals to medical offices to outpatient services to eye surgery centers to university settings. We focus on rehabilitation, nursing homes, home care, hospice as well as men’s health, women’s heath, and pediatrics.