Obesity is the excess of body fat. In India, obesity has become an epidemic with 5 per cent of the country being affected by it. The issue is not just a mere cosmetic concern but one that can increase your risk of developing other diseases and several health problems.
Obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more. BMI is calculated by taking into account the height and weight of an individual. Certain factors such as age, sex, ethnicity, and muscle mass of an individual can impact the link between body fat and BMI. However, BMI is the standard indicator for excess weight .
To determine your BMI, you have to divide your weight in kilograms by your height in metres squared (BMI = kg/m2).
Check your BMI here.Types Of Obesity
There are multiple classifications of obesity. The condition is differentiated depending on the area of fat deposition, association with other diseases and the size and number of fat cells .
Depending on the association with other diseases, obesity is classified into two and they are as follows:
Depending on the area of fat deposition, obesity is classified into three and they are as follows :
Depending on the size and number of fat cells, obesity can be divided into two types and they are :
Fat gain is usually caused by behavioural, genetic, metabolic and hormonal influences on body weight, with calorie intake being the primary reason. That is, eating more calories than you burn in daily activity and exercise leads to obesity .
The most common causes of obesity are as follows:
Apart from these, certain medical conditions can also lead to obesity, such as the following :
The first warning sign of obesity is gaining above-average body weight. Apart from that, the symptoms of obesity are as follows :
Risk Factors Of Obesity
Various factors such as a mix of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors play a major role in increasing an individual's risk of developing obesity .
Individuals who are obese are increasingly prone to various health problems that are extremely severe in nature.
The major complications include the following :
Apart from these, obesity can adversely affect one's quality of life. Depression, social isolation, disability, low work achievement, shame etc. are some of the ways obesity can affect one's quality of life .Diagnosis Of Obesity
The doctor will begin with a physical examination and recommend tests to understand the severity of the condition .
The goal of obesity treatment is to attain a healthy weight and maintain it. The treatment is carried out to improve your overall health and reduce the risk of developing health complications.
Obesity can be prevented. By adopting lifestyle changes and good diet choices, you can help yourself from gaining all that extra weight. Do not neglect (light) exercising daily for at least 20-30 minutes, eat nutritious foods like fruits and vegetables and avoid consuming high-fat foods.
Infographics by Sharan Jayanth