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Obesity Risks: The Big Fat Truth
by Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN
Obesity increases the risk of developing medical problems such as heart disease and stroke, Type 2 diabetes, bowel cancer, and high blood pressure. Being overweight can also cause psychological distress. People who are overweight or obese are more likely to be teased or discriminated against because of their appearance. Therefore, they tend to have less confidence and lower self-esteem. This can lead to isolation and depression, which are likely to only worsen the problem.
Predisposition Towards Obesity
Due to a combination of genetics and environmental conditions, people from overweight families tend to be overweight themselves. In very rare situations, obesity is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as an endocrine problem or a genetic disorder.
You are at especially high risk for obesity if:
*One or both of your parents are overweight.
*You earn a low income.
*Your mobility is limited by a chronic disease or disability.
Medical Risks of Obesity
The medical problems associated with obesity include such conditions as asthma, Type 2 diabetes, gallstones, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disorders, menstrual problems, metabolic syndrome, and sleep disorders.
Asthma: Asthma is just one of the medical problems with obesity. The overweight and obese are at greater risk for developing asthma than their peers. The stress of dealing with asthma can lead to issues, such as being nervous and having trouble focusing on tasks. All of these behavior problems can interfere with daily life.
Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes has become increasingly prevalent. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now estimate that one in three people born in the United States will develop diabetes in their lifetime.
Gallstones: The gallbladder is filled with a liquid called bile that is used to help the body digest fats. Gallstones form when this bile hardens into pieces of stone-like material. The risk of developing gallstones is significantly higher in those who are obese.
Heart Disease: Atherosclerosis is the most common cause of heart disease. Its the process in which deposits of fatty substances, cholesterol, cellular waste products, calcium and other substances build up along the inner lining of an artery. This buildup, called plaque, affects both large and medium-sized arteries. Atherosclerosis is related to high blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which are associated with poor eating habits and obesity.
High Blood Pressure: Obese people are more likely to have high blood pressure than their peers. High blood pressure places a great deal of strain on the heart.
Liver Problems: Obese and overweight people have a greater risk for developing a liver problem called nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). This disorder can be severe and can lead to cirrhosis, in which the liver is permanently damaged and scarred and no longer able to work properly.
Menstrual Problems: Young girls that are overweight or obese may reach puberty at an earlier age than their peers. Obesity may also contribute to the development of uterine fibroids or other menstrual irregularities in adult women.
Metabolic Syndrome: Between 25% and 40% of overweight or obese people suffer from the metabolic syndrome which leads to other medical problems associated with obesity, such as diabetes and heart problems.
Sleep Disorders: Sleep disorders are another one of the medical concerns connected with obesity. Those who are overweight may develop a serious condition called obstructive sleep apnea that is characterized by brief interruptions of breathing during sleep. Over a long period of time, this type of sleep apnea can lead to heart failure. If youre suffering from obesity, I urge you to do something about it as soon as possible. Dont put it off--get started today. The best methods for preventing obesity is to improve your eating habits, increase physical activity, and reduce sedentary behaviors such as watching television.
If you think that you may need a little extra weight overcoming obesity, consider a high quality nutritional supplement to help you lose weight. Slimirex™ is an amazing weight-loss supplement which helps boost metabolism, reduce appetite, increase energy levels and build lean muscle mass.
Dr. Edward F. Group III is the founder of Global Healing Center, Inc. He continues to develop, sell and evaluate exclusively high-end natural and organic healthcare products to support a wide range of health conditions.
For more information, please visit www.weightlossobesity.com
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