Obesity is a medical condition in which your body stores too much fat. It affects millions of people around the world and raises the risk of other health problems. In this article, you will learn how to measure it, what causes it, and how to treat it.
What Is Obesity?
Obesity means that excess body fat has built up and can harm your health. It increases the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and some cancers.
How to Calculate BMI (Body Mass Index)
You can calculate BMI with a simple formula: divide your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared.
Formula: BMI = weight (kg) / height (m)²
Here is how doctors read the result:
- Healthy weight: 18.5 to 24.9
- Overweight: 25 to 29.9
- Obesity: 30 or higher
- Severe obesity: 40 or higher
Experts suggest lower cut-offs for South Asian people, who may face health risks at a lower BMI. A BMI of 23 or more may already count as overweight.
Why Do People Develop Obesity?
Lack of Sleep
When you do not sleep enough, your body changes the levels of leptin and ghrelin, the hormones that control hunger. You feel hungrier and gain weight more easily.
Lack of Physical Activity
If you do not move much, your body burns fewer calories than you eat. The extra calories turn into fat.
Unhealthy Food
Junk food and sugary drinks add many calories but few nutrients, so they make you gain weight.
How to Treat Obesity
Change Your Lifestyle
Focus on your diet. Eat fruits, vegetables, and lean protein such as fish and beans. Avoid junk food and sugary drinks such as soda. A healthy diet also lowers your risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Be physically active. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week. Some experts, including The American College of Sports Medicine, suggest 250 minutes or more a week for weight loss.
Medical Treatment
If diet and exercise do not work, your doctor may suggest medical treatment. The two main options are medicine and bariatric surgery.
Medication
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves some medicines for people with a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with a weight-related condition. Examples include Zepbound and orlistat. A doctor must prescribe and monitor them.
Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is usually for people with a BMI of 40 or higher, or 35 or higher with serious health problems. Doctors recommend it only for severe obesity. The three main types are:
- Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
- Laparoscopic adjustable gastric band
- Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy
Disclaimer: This article is for information only. It is not medical advice. Please talk to your doctor about your own health.
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