Skip to main content

BURDEN OF OBESITY

 


Mental health and physical health go hand in hand. Researcher have found a relationship between excess body weight and mental health issues. 

Persons with extreme obesity are five times more likely to have an episode of major depression. This association appears to be stronger for women than men, because of society’s emphasis on thinness as a characteristic of female beauty.



General false beliefs related to obesity:

-That they are unattractive to the opposite sex.

-That being obese is not beautiful.

-A general feeling of inferiority complex.

-That they are not being loved because of their weight.

 


Psychological and other mental health issues of obesity:

1.       Depression and Anxiety

As the society expects women and men the look a certain way, not looking that way can cause depression and anxiety when appearing in social gatherings

2.       Eating Disorders

Disordered eating is common among persons with obesity. From binge eating to emotional eating to no eating. Only a few people however recognize their eating disorder and take treatment for it.

3.       Low self-esteem.

Sense frustration and hopelessness after failed attempts of weight loss leads to low self-esteem

4.       Distorted Body Image

Body image is an important aspect of quality of life for many individuals. Body image dissatisfaction is common for individuals who are overweight, as it is for women and girls of average weight.

5.       Sexual Abuse, Physical Abuse, and Emotional Neglect

Most people with extreme obesity report some form of emotional neglect during their childhood, ranging from verbal abuse, emotional neglect, or other family dysfunction associated with separation, divorce, substance abuse, or incarceration of a member of the nuclear family.

6.       Discrimination

Persons who are obese are frequently subjected to discrimination in several settings, including educational, employment, and even health care settings.

7.       Physical health issues

Compared to adults with normal weight, adults with a BMI greater than 30 are more likely to be diagnosed with coronary heart disease (CHD), hypertension, stroke, high cholesterol, gout, osteoarthritis, irregular menses, sleep problems, asthma, skin conditions and some types of cancer.



WHAT CAN BE DONE?

-Internal and external motivation for weight loss.

-Set realistic expectations.

-Exercise and healthy diet with consistency

-Surgical options are also available like gastric bypass, gastroplasty (which decreases stomach capacity with a band), jaw wiring and liposuction.

 


One question to ask yourself every night before you go to bed, what did I do today that will make me healthier tomorrow?







Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Plant-Based Diets: A Path to Sustainable and Healthful Eating

In recent years, the popularity of plant-based diets has skyrocketed. Beyond the buzz, these diets offer a host of benefits for both individuals and the planet. They aren't just a trend; they represent a fundamental shift in how we approach food, health, and sustainability. 1. The Essence of Plant-Based Eating At its core, a plant-based diet revolves around the consumption of foods primarily sourced from plants. This includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. While some plant-based eaters may include small amounts of animal products, such as dairy or eggs, others follow strict vegan principles, abstaining from all animal-derived foods. 2. The Health Perspective Plant-based diets are renowned for their health benefits. Studies have consistently shown that these diets can help lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. They are naturally low in saturated fats and cholesterol while being rich in essential ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Managing Chronic Conditions with Lifestyle Medicine: Success Stories and Strategies

Chronic conditions, ranging from heart disease and diabetes to obesity and hypertension, affect millions of people worldwide. While medical treatments undoubtedly play a crucial role in managing these conditions, there is a powerful ally in the fight against chronic illness: lifestyle medicine. In this article, we explore the stories of individuals who have successfully managed chronic conditions through lifestyle changes and share practical strategies for adopting a healthier way of life. Success Stories 1. Rashmi's Battle with Diabetes: Rashmi was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and her initial reaction was fear and uncertainty. However, with the guidance of a lifestyle medicine specialist, she embarked on a journey of transformation. By incorporating regular physical activity, adopting a balanced diet rich in whole foods, and practicing stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness and yoga, she was able to not only control her blood sugar levels but also shed excess weight. Her ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Exploring the World of Plant-Based Diets: From Vegan to Flexitarian

                          Plant-based diets have gained significant popularity in recent years, with individuals around the globe recognizing the health and environmental benefits of reducing their reliance on animal products. However, within the realm of plant-based eating, there are various dietary approaches, each with its own unique principles and preferences. Let's take a closer look at some of the most prominent plant-based diets: 1. Vegan Diet: The Pinnacle of Plant-Based Living Vegans are at the forefront of plant-based eating, strictly avoiding all animal products. This means no meat, dairy, eggs, or even honey. Veganism extends beyond diet, encompassing a lifestyle that seeks to minimize harm to animals in all aspects, including clothing and personal care products. Vegans embrace plant-powered alternatives, such as tofu, tempeh, and a colorful array of fruits and vegetables. 2. Vegetarian Diet: A Gradual Tra...
Post a Comment
Read more