Obesity is a growing problem in this world where we do most things with computers. A common solution is to become more physically active. But some may find it difficult to lose weight even if they want to.
Below, we look into why losing weight is a challenge:
For Best Results Get Obesity And Why Physical Activity Isn't Enough Workbook
What Is Obesity?
Obesity is a chronic disease that leads to extreme amounts of body fat. This amount of body fat will change how your body functions. That can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, like:
- High blood pressure, and
- Coronary heart disease
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is used to determine whether someone is obese or not. A BMI of 30 or higher is an indicator of obesity. But it has limits, like those with body weight composed of more muscle mass than fat.
Why Is Physical Activity Not Enough?
Obesity is when your energy expenditure does not burn as many calories as you consume. Being more physically active can help you lose weight. But there are many reasons why physical activity is not the sole solution for weight reduction.
Genetics
Some people are prone to weight gain due to their genetics.
Lifestyle Choices
Your lifestyle affects your likelihood of developing obesity. Consuming high-calorie foods and beverages contribute to weight gain.
Long-term lack of exercise is also a risk factor for obesity.
Mental Health
Psychological conditions, like depression and loneliness, may contribute to obesity. These factors can lead to overeating as food can activate pleasure centers in the brain.
Hormones
The hormones that regulate hunger can be disrupted, causing you to crave food when you don't need it. Stress and sleeplessness can contribute to this disruption.
How To Achieve A Healthy Weight
Here are some ways to help you achieve a healthy weight:
Calorie Restriction
Do you often eat high-calorie food? Just relying on physical activity may not result in weight loss. The calories you consume can be equal to or more than what you burn. That leaves no room for weight reduction.
A healthy eating plan that pays attention to your caloric intake can prevent weight gain. Increasing vegetable consumption can also reduce the amount of visceral fat in your body.
Combine this with enough energy expenditure, and you can effectively reduce your body weight.
Lifestyle Changes
Your lifestyle greatly affects your weight management. Try to change some habits to something with more health benefits.
Sleeping may help stabilize the hormones that control hunger. Try to avoid stressful situations as much as possible, or learn not to overeat as a way to cope.
To maintain weight loss, these changes should continue even after you reach a healthy body weight.
Behavioral Interventions
No matter how much physical activity you have, weight maintenance may still be difficult. Research has shown that behavioral interventions can help you overcome weight loss challenges.
Counseling can help reinforce behaviors like goal setting, self-monitoring, and self-control. It can help you manage negative thoughts during obesity management.
Family-based interventions can also help you reach your goals. They will promote behaviors that lead to weight loss and weight gain prevention. This type of intervention is especially helpful for school-aged children.
Medication
Your healthcare provider may recommend medication to help you lose weight when exercise can’t. They may prescribe medicine to:
- Curb your appetite
- Reduce fat absorption, and
- Slow digestion
To Wrap Up
Obesity is a chronic disease that can be life-threatening if left alone. Nowadays, it is considered a public health issue. It's not all about physical fitness anymore. A balanced diet, some lifestyle changes, and a good support system can help you achieve better overall health.
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For Best Results Get Obesity And Why Physical Activity Isn't Enough Workbook