Obesity, which is having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, is a common condition that affects millions of Americans. Although many view it as a normal way of life, it’s a serious and costly disease that can significantly damage a person’s overall health. It impacts more than just the way you look—it also has an effect on many of your bodily functions.
Obesity can be a costly condition to have. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that, on average, an individual with obesity pays $1,429 more in medical costs than a patient with a healthy weight. It also makes a person more susceptible to a number of other illnesses, which we will explore below:
1 – Type 2 Diabetes
Many studies have shown that obesity is the leading cause of type 2 diabetes, which occurs when the body is unable to process the hormone insulin. As a result, the patient has trouble regulating their blood sugar. When too much sugar circulates in the bloodstream, the individual develops problems with their circulatory, immune, and nervous systems.
There is currently no known cure for diabetes, but one of the best ways to prevent it is to avoid developing obesity. Weight loss, having a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and maintaining regular exercise are some of the best ways to mitigate the risk of these conditions.
2 – Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleeping disorder that occurs when a person’s breathing becomes blocked or interrupted during sleep. Persons with this condition may snore heavily and stop breathing temporarily. It causes undue stress and makes other health conditions more likely, such as heart problems and hypertension (high blood pressure).
This sleep disorder is more common in obese individuals, as excess fat can block the airways during slumber. A 10% weight loss can significantly reduce a person’s risk of having sleep apnea.
3 – Heart Disease and Stroke
Having excess fat reserves due to obesity can force the heart to work harder, which can cause a wealth of heart-related problems. Obese individuals are more susceptible to high blood pressure, heart disease, and heart failure.
Obesity increases the risk of developing blockages in the blood vessels, which can cause heart attacks and strokes. Fortunately, individuals can decrease these odds by losing weight.
4 – Cancer
According to the National Cancer Institute, there has been consistent evidence pointing to a link between obesity and various types of cancer. Obese individuals have a higher risk of developing endometrial, liver, kidney, breast, ovarian, and pancreatic cancers.
Keeping a Healthy Weight: Some Helpful Tips
Your weight depends on many factors, such as your age, genetics, lifestyle, culture, environment, sleeping habits, and many more. However, there are things you can do to regulate your weight, including:
- Burning more calories than you intake to lose weight
- Maintaining regular physical activity
- Limiting your food portions
- Checking up with your doctor.
Visit a Weight Loss Clinic in Birmingham, AL
Obesity is a common and serious disease that many people take lightly. However, it can lead to many other illnesses that can be debilitating or even fatal. Maintaining a healthy weight is not just for the sake of appearances but also for ensuring the body’s protection against numerous chronic and life-threatening conditions.
If you’re looking for a weight loss clinic in Birmingham, AL, Weigh to Wellness is the place to go. With our board-certified medical professionals, we’ll ensure that you’re in good hands as you start your journey toward optimal health and fitness. Contact us and start your program today!