What is the Definition of Obesity and How do you Know if You are a Victim?

Obesity: Do you describe yourself a big boned, thick, or chunky? Sometimes, these satisfying adjectives are words we use to make ourselves comfortable with our weight. Most times, we are aware that we actually may be harmfully overweight. Obesity is a disorder that involves immoderate amounts of body fat under the skin or around the visceral organs. It simply means there is too much body fat for a given height and calories are not being burned quicker than they are being digested. The extraneous body fat increases the risk of various health problems like diabetes, strokes, kidney problems, high blood pressure, consistent migraines, heart disease, and arthritis. The condition can even be paralyzing as it can lead to physical inability. Obesity depends on a combination of physical features like height, weight, and body mass index (BMI, a muscle to fat ratio). Here is an example of how you may use the BMI to declare if you are overweight or obese.

• BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9—Normal.
• BMI is between 25.0 and 29.9—Overweight.
• BMI is greater than 29.9—Obese.

Obesity is not healthy and we urge you to live lifestyle that avoids it. Obesity can affect factors other than physical health. It can affect social and psychological health as well. People who experience obesity often suffer from discrimination, low self-confidence, and difficulty finding everyday items and activities that satisfy their bodies. It is important to monitor your body weight and eating habits.

Talk to your medical care provider to see if you are in good standings with your body and steps you can take to achieve good health!

I have attached a video from the series “Fat Doctor.” This show offers a glimpse into the lives of some who suffer from obesity and what medical measures they take to slimming down.

Feel free to visit http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/lose_wt/BMI/bmicalc.htm to calculate your BMI to learn more about your body.