COMBATING THE PLAGUE OF OBESITY IN THE US

In the past two decades, the United States has seen an increase in the number of adults who are categorized as obese. It is estimated that one third of the US population has been diagnosed as obese. Obesity is damaging to people for two reasons. The first reason is the effect that obesity has on a person’s health. The second reason is the psychological and emotional issues that are associated with being overweight in a society that puts so much emphasis on a person’s appearance. This has led many people to search out a bariatric surgery Tampa clinic to help them lose weight.

Health Concerns Associated with Obesity

The number one reason why a person should be interested in losing weight is to improve their health. Research has proven unquestionably that there is a link between being overweight and having health issues such as type II diabetes, heart disease, strokes, and even some forms of cancer. The WHO lists obesity as the fifth leading cause of death around the world. Interestingly, when a person loses weight, certain health conditions like heart disease and type II diabetes can be reversed.

Weight Loss and Appearance

The number two reason why most people want to lose weight is to improve their appearance. It is well documented that individuals who are overweight suffer discrimination in personal and professional aspects of their lives. In the professional world, an overweight individual is less likely to be offered employment. If they are hired, they are often given lower wages. This is due in part to the media’s fascination with skinny models and actors who make people believe that they will be seen in a better light if they lose more weight.

Weight Loss and Emotions

Being discriminated against because of being overweight has a detrimental effect on a person’s emotions. The insecurities that come with this type of discrimination lead to depression and low self-esteem. There are some researchers who believe that bipolar disease and depression could be linked to obesity. Additionally, when a person is overweight, they feel sluggish and tired.

Weight Loss and Fitness

Many people lose weight because they want to have a fit lifestyle. According to the International Journal of Obesity and Related Metabolic Disorders, physical activities like running and walking are easier for individuals who have a normal body weight. People who enjoy sports and physical activities find that losing weight helps them perform better in these activities.

Obesity is a problem in the United States. Thankfully, more people are becoming aware of this problem and taking the steps necessary to improve their health and lose weight.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12037662

http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs311/en/

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Posted in Women and Family, Women and Health, Women and Weight