Obesity
From ArticleWorld
Obesity occurs when natural energy reserves (which is stored in fatty tissues) grows to the point where it can harm one's health.
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Obesity in organisms
In wild animals, obesity is extremely rare; it is, however, common in domestic animals and household pets that may eat too much and exercise too rarely.
In humans, it is typically estimated by using the body mass index, which is calculated by dividing one's weight by one's height squared. A person with a BMI over 25 is considered overweight; over 30 is considered obese and over 35 puts one at risk of morbid obesity.
Typically both the doctor and patient can tell by looking when someone is extremely overweight.
Health
In humans obesity is typically attributed to being the leading cause of serious health problems. That is because excessive body weight has been proven to make people more susceptible to some disease, especially cardiovascular disease.
The American Cancer Institute has said that the ideal BMI to avoid cancer risk is between 18.5 and 25.
All obesity, but especially obesity that centers around the waist (called central obesity) is a risk factor for metabolic syndrome, also known as syndrome x. It also heavily predisposes someone to cardiovascular disease, diabetes type 2, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high triglyceride levels. It is also associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome, menstrual disorders, infertility, various cancers, stillbirth and a variety of musculoskeletal, neurologic, respiratory and psychological disorders.
Cause
Obesity occurs when calorie intake excessively exceeds calorie expenditure. There are several things that may influence this imbalance.
- Sedentary lifestyle and limited activity.
- Genetics.
- High glycemic diet.
- Weight cycling.
- Illness, specifically thyroid issues.
- Eating disorders.
- Sleep problems.
- Stress.
- Medications.
Help
Weight loss and medication are often recommended to obese individuals as means of fighting the risk that they'll develop serious disease. People may also wish to lose weight for reasons of appearance.
It is suggested that people with a BMI greater than 30 be counseled in diet and exercise and drug therapy in extreme cases. People with a BMI greater than 40 who are unable to otherwise lose weight may be candidates for surgery.