Obesity

Definition of obesity: it is an abnormal accumulation of fat inside the adipose tissue in all parts of the body. These accumulations lead to negative effects on the overall health of the body.

 Fat percentage measurement:

Measuring the percentage of obesity can be done using several methods, including:

1. Body mass index (BMI):

The body mass index (BMI) is a measure used to assess weight in relation to height, and aims to classify the health status of individuals based on their weight compared to their height.

How to calculate the BMI indicator:

The BMI calculation method is based on a very simple equation:

• Weight in kilograms ÷ (height in meters × height in meters)=BMI

• If your height is in centimeters, you need to convert it to meters.  

•  Example: if you weigh 70 kg and are 170 cm tall (i.e. 1.7 meters):  

70÷(1.7×1.7)=24.22

Normal and abnormal BMI ratios:

• Less than 18.5: underweight there may be a risk of undernutrition or other health problems.

• From 18.5 to 24.9: normal or ideal weight.

• From 25 to 29.9: being overweight there may be an increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.

• From 30 to 34.9: obesity of the first degree.

• From 35 to 39.9: obesity of the second degree is a high risk to health, and needs medical follow-up.

• More than or equal to 40: obesity is excessive and represents a very high risk to public health, medical intervention is required.

Observation :

- The BMI does not distinguish between fat and muscle, so athletes who have many muscles may show a high BMI, but they are healthy.

2.Measurement of waist circumference to assess the distribution of body fat:

The waist circumference should be measured strictly, so that the measurement is at the midpoint of the distance between the rib cage and the upper edge of the pelvic bone, while maintaining muscle relaxation and normal breathing:

Natural proportions of the waistline:

• For men: usually the waist circumference is less than 94 cm (about 37 inches).

• If the waist circumference is 94 cm or more, this is considered an increase in fat around the abdomen and increases healthy waistlines.

• For women: usually the waist circumference is less than 80 cm (about 31.5 inches.

• If the waist circumference is 80 cm or more, this is an indicator of excess fat around the abdomen and increases the health risk.

3. The use of fat measuring devices:

• Lipometers are available that can be used to measure the percentage of fat in the body.

• These devices can be more accurate than BMI, but they can be more expensive.

Causes of increased accumulation of fat in the body:

1. Unhealthy diet: eating foods high in calories and fat, eating processed foods and sugary drinks.

2. Lack of physical activity: lack of exercise and lack of physical movement.

3. Medications: some medications such as antidepressants, diabetes medications, and high blood pressure medications may increase the risk of weight gain.

4. Psychological factors: mental disorders, stress, anxiety, depression may lead to weight gain.

5. Environmental factors: such as the availability of unhealthy foods and lack of opportunities to exercise.

6. Hormonal disorders: such as hypothyroidism and Cushing's syndrome.

7. Genetic factors: some people have a genetic predisposition to weight gain as a result of genetic factors that affect metabolism and fat storage.

Complications caused by increased accumulation of fat in the body:

1. Heart disease: obesity increases the risk of heart disease, such as high blood pressure and coronary artery disease.

2. Type 2 diabetes mellitus: excess weight is associated with increased insulin resistance, it can lead to the development of diabetes mellitus.

3. Respiratory problems: such as sleep apnea, where breathing stops during sleep due to the accumulation of fat around the neck area.

4. Joint problems: obesity increases stress on the joints, which can lead to arthritis (arthrosis) and joint pain.

5. Liver problems: such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which can progress to cirrhosis.

6. Digestive problems: such as GERD (acidity) and gallstones.

7. Cancer risk: there is an association between obesity and an increased risk of certain cancers, such as breast cancer and colon cancer.

8. Psychological problems: obesity can lead to depression and anxiety, as well as low self-esteem.

9. Reproductive problems: obesity may affect fertility and increase the risk of pregnancy complications.

10. Kidney disease: obesity can lead to an increased risk of chronic kidney disease.

Treatment of obesity:

Treatment of obesity requires a comprehensive approach that combines changes in lifestyle, nutrition, physical activity. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Healthy diet: focus on foods rich in nutrients such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, limit the intake of foods that contain high calories and saturated fats.

2. Exercise regularly: it is recommended to do at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week (such as walking, swimming, or cycling).

3. Increase daily activity: such as using the stairs instead of the elevator, or walking instead of driving short distances.

4. Psychological support: support groups or psychological counseling can help deal with the psychological factors associated with obesity.

5. Drug therapy: in some cases, the doctor may prescribe medications to help with weight loss, especially for people with health problems associated with obesity.

6. Surgery: in cases of severe obesity for which other methods do not work, bariatric surgery can be an option. Common types include such as gastric bypass or gastric banding.

7. Medical evaluation:

* It is important to consult a doctor or nutritionist before starting any weight loss program to determine the most suitable option based on the individual health condition.

Additional tips:

* Drink water: drinking enough water helps control hunger.

* Good sleep: getting enough sleep can affect weight positively.

* Avoid extreme diets: focus on permanent lifestyle changes rather than short-term diets.

• The treatment of obesity needs commitment and patience, and it must be part of a sustainable healthy lifestyle.