Weighing In: The Real Health Risks of Obesity

Weighing In: The Real Health Risks of Obesity * How Fat is Obese? Many of us are carrying around a few unwanted pounds here and there. While some extra curves may affect our jeans size and self-image, they are otherwise not much cause for concern. But when excessive body weight becomes a danger to your health, a condition we call obesity, it presents a more serious problem. It is estimated that 30% of the population of the United States is currently obese, an alarming statistic when you understand the consequences, both to the individual and as a national health care burden. Obesity is measured by body mass index, or BMI - a ratio of body weight to height. A BMI of 30 or greater means that you are obese. * What Causes Obesity? The simple answer to this question is that you gain excess weight when the calories you consume are greater than those you burn. Our culture predisposes many people to become overweight; "super-size" portions and modern conveniences (internet shopping, the TV remote, etc.), encourage overeating while eliminating the need for physical activity. And while most of us understand the need for exercise, a large proportion of individuals either feel they don't have the time, or simply don't want to take the trouble. Emotional and environmental factors contribute to obesity as well; genes play a large role in fat retention, and low self-esteem, stress, anxiety and depression, and trauma can all lead to comfort eating. In addition, certain medical conditions and medications may cause unwanted weight gain. Social events also center around eating (and drinking - alcohol is extremely high in calories, which tend to accumulate as abdominal fat); with all of these influences, it is no wonder that so many people have trouble with their body weight. * Health Risks of Obesity If you are obese, you could be facing many long-term consequences to your health, including: - Type 2 Diabetesrn- Coronary artery disease; - High blood pressure; - High cholesterol; - Stroke; - Sleep apnea. These are just a handful of the potentially life-threatening diseases you may encounter if you are obese, the good thing is that by losing excess body fat, you reduce your chances of being affected by serious health problems. * I have tried dieting, and nothing seems to work. What can I do? Everywhere you look, advertisements proclaim the latest ultimate weight-loss solution, promising you a dream body if only you purchase the miracle product or follow the latest fad diet, usually for a significant price. Unfortunately, there really is no magical way to make the extra pounds disappear. It takes hard work, dedication and time to lose weight and keep it off. But it is possible, if you follow some simple rules: - Eat smart. Make sure you are getting plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. rnAvoid refined flours and sugars - stay away from processed foods. - Exercise. You do have time, and if not, you need to make time. There are no shortcuts here. - Use natural weight-loss supplements to boost your metabolism and help your body shed unwanted fat. - Relax. Find an activity you enjoy that helps you to de-stress and increases your ability to cope with daily rnaggravations, rather than resorting to snacking to feel better. The most important thing is to stick with it. You are worth all the effort you put into taking care of yourself. If you slip up, don't punish yourself with guilt. Keep trying, don't give up, and you will see the results in the end. Visit Http://www.HealthRemedies.com to find out more out obesity and natural weight loss supplements that can help. Valerie Balandra NP is a nurse practitioner that takes a naturopathic and functional medicine approach towards patient care. She can be reached for consultations at 941 371-7997.