Obesity is a health condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the body. It is commonly linked to insufficient physical activity, excessive calorie intake, poor dietary habits, and genetic factors. Excess weight is typically assessed using Body Mass Index (BMI), which measures weight relative to height. A BMI above a certain threshold indicates excess weight.
Obesity: What Is It and What Are the Treatment Methods?
What Causes Excess Weight?
Excess weight is often evaluated using a measurement called Body Mass Index (BMI), which indicates how suitable a person's weight is for their height. Excess weight is defined when BMI exceeds a certain threshold. Unhealthy eating habits, low levels of physical activity, and genetic factors are commonly associated with excess weight and can lead to various health problems, emphasizing the importance of weight control and treatment.
Factors contributing to excess weight include excessive calorie intake, low levels of physical activity, genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalances, psychosocial factors (such as stress, depression), inadequate sleep, and poor dietary habits. Sedentary lifestyles and the consumption of high-calorie, processed foods also contribute to excess weight.
Obesity in Children
The groundwork for excess weight is often established in childhood. Every year, 2.6 million people worldwide lose their lives to excess weight-related conditions. In Turkey, the prevalence of obesity is currently at 30% and continues to rise at an alarming rate. Modern lifestyles”marked by frequent consumption of high-calorie and fast foods, eating quickly, sedentary habits, and late-night snacking”lead to imbalanced nutrition and, subsequently, excess weight. In particular, excessive intake of sugary, fatty, and processed foods among children significantly increases the risk of developing excess weight.
What Are the Symptoms of Obesity?
The most apparent symptom of excess weight is excessive weight gain. However, excess weight may also present with other symptoms, including difficulty performing physical activities, shortness of breath, fatigue, joint pain, sleep apnea, insulin resistance, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, excess weight is associated with serious health complications such as heart disease, high blood pressure, certain cancers, and psychological issues.
What Are the Symptoms of Obesity in Children?
What Are the Symptoms of Obesity in Adults?
Symptoms of excess weight in adults include weighing above the ideal range, having a waist circumference greater than recommended, and experiencing rapid weight gain. Additional symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, sleep apnea, skin problems, as well as back and joint pain.
Obesity Surgery: What Is It?
Excess weight surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, involves surgical procedures designed to promote weight loss and manage health problems in individuals who are overweight or obese. These surgeries work by either reducing the size of the stomach or limiting the absorption of nutrients in the intestines. Common types of bariatric surgery include sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass), and biliopancreatic diversion (BPD).
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Frequently Asked Questions About
Excess weight is a serious medical condition that can lead to numerous health issues. Below are some frequently asked questions and answers about obesity:
Are Genetic Factors Important in Obesity?
Genetic factors can play an important role in the development of obesity. A genetic predisposition may increase a person's risk, and a family history of obesity suggests a higher likelihood due to inherited traits. However, genetics alone do not determine whether an individual will become obese, as lifestyle and environmental factors are also significant contributors.
Do Hormones Affect Obesity?
Hormones play an important role in regulating appetite, metabolism, and fat storage, all of which affect body weight. Hormonal imbalances can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of obesity. Addressing these imbalances may be essential in obesity treatment, and in some cases, hormone therapy can be an effective part of a comprehensive weight loss strategy.
Am I a Suitable Candidate for Obesity Treatment?
To determine whether you are a suitable candidate for obesity treatment, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. Because obesity treatment must be tailored to each individual, a professional evaluation can help identify the most appropriate approach for you. Your healthcare provider will assess your condition and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that best addresses your unique needs.