4 HEALTH RISKS RELATING TO OBESITY

We all know that it’s important to maintain a healthy weight. But many of us focus on how being overweight makes us look, rather than the actual health risks. So many people embark on the latest fad diet in order to get the perfect beach body. But what about the rest of the year? Being obese puts a lot of strain on the body and also increases the risk of developing serious health complaints. It’s important to focus on your body as a whole rather than just what it looks like on the outside.

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The term obese relates to how overweight a person is and how much body fat they have stored. Being overweight leads to being at risk of serious health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Maintaining a healthy weight will enable you to lower your risk of such diseases and allow you to live a full and active life with your family.

This article aims to highlight the risks associated with obesity.

More:It’s time to make these changes to your lifestyle

 

 4 HEALTH RISKS OF OBESITY

Diabetes

There are three types of diabetes – obstetric diabetes, type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is normally a hereditary condition which manifests in childhood. Medication for type 1 diabetes will normally need to be taken throughout life, click here. Type 2 diabetes is normally caused by being overweight and manifests later in life. This type of diabetes can be controlled with diet if mild, but if severe insulin may need to be taken in the form of daily injections. If left without treatment the raised blood sugar levels can put the person at risk of a stroke and other cardiovascular problems.

 

Cancer

As we age our bodies become more at risk of developing cancer. It’s important to maintain a healthy weight as many cancers have been linked to obesity. These cancers include breast, pancreatic and colon. Too much red and processed meats are linked to cancer and will also contribute to weight gain if eaten in large quantities.

 

High blood pressure

Being overweight contributes to high blood pressure as the heart needs to work extra hard to ensure blood reaches all cells within the body. High blood pressure can lead to stroke, kidney failure and heart disease. Weight loss will help to lower blood pressure, it would also be wise to cut down on salty foods and increase exercise. Medication may be required.

 

Heart disease

Heart disease covers a range of problems that can affect the normal functioning of the heart. Arteries can become narrowed with fatty deposits causing the risk of a heart attack. Other problems that could be experienced include angina (chest pain), heart failure and an abnormal heart rhythm.

Losing weight can lower blood pressure, increase blood flow and lower cholesterol levels, which in turn will decrease strain on the heart.

There are so many more serious disease that increase with being obese. These include depression, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis and stroke. It’s essential therefore to maintain a healthy weight. The best way of doing this is to be aware of your BMI (body mass index) and aim to get yours within the normal range for your height. Seek medical advice if you’re struggling, your body will thank you for it!

Also: Tips for battling sleep apnea disorder

*collaborative post

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