With March 1-31 marked as “Obesity Awareness Month,” this week’s topic is one of today’s most pressing health concerns: obesity.
Studies from 2020 reveal that 67% of the population aged 15 and older in the U.S. and 56% in Turkey are classified as obese. In obesity rates among OECD countries, the U.S. ranks first, with Turkey coming in ninth, meaning that one in every three individuals in Turkey is obese.
Let’s take a closer look at this condition, which can adversely affect our lives in many ways.
Obesity refers to an excessive and abnormal accumulation of body fat that negatively impacts health. A Body Mass Index (BMI) calculation is used to determine if someone is obese. A BMI of 18.5-24.9 kg/m² is considered ideal weight, while 30-39.9 kg/m² is classified as obese, and above 40 kg/m² is classified as morbidly obese.
Obesity caused by overeating is termed “exogenous or simple obesity,” while obesity stemming from disease or hormonal reasons is known as “pathological obesity.”
Causes of Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Irregular and unbalanced diet
- Consumption of unhealthy, fatty, fast-food types of foods
- Overeating
- Diet high in sugars and carbohydrates
- Genetic predisposition to obesity in the family
Effects of Obesity
Obesity can pave the way for health issues such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and certain cancers. Beyond organ fattening, it can trigger various other health problems.
Additionally, obesity affects not only physical but also mental health. Due to societal expectations about body image, individuals may experience anxiety, depression, and feelings of shame.
However, don’t worry—obesity is treatable!
Personalized diet plans, customized exercise routines, and psychological support can all help in the treatment of obesity. For cases of morbid obesity, surgical procedures and medications may be considered. Those affected by obesity should seek support from a physiotherapist, psychologist, and dietitian. You can measure your BMI on our site at Acibadem BMI Calculator.
Tips for Preventing Obesity
To prevent obesity, you may need to make some lifestyle and dietary changes. Here’s what to do:
- If you lead a sedentary lifestyle, start incorporating regular physical activity and exercise. Aim to walk at least 30 minutes daily.
- Avoid fast food and processed foods, and focus on a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Use olive oil instead of animal fats.
- Choose low-fat or fat-free options for meats and cheeses.
- Eliminate sugar from your diet and avoid sugary beverages like soda.
- Drink at least two liters of water daily, equivalent to about 8-10 glasses.
- Strive to eat at least three balanced meals per day.
- Pay attention to your sleep schedule; sleeping less than seven hours or more than ten hours can slow your metabolism, which is detrimental to health.
For healthy and delicious meals, visit Hello Healthy to explore our chef-prepared meal packages, created under the guidance of our dietitians.
Sources
- Sözcü. (2021, June 20). Retrieved on March 10, 2023, from Sözcü
- Bolu Provincial Health Directorate. (2022, March 31). Retrieved on March 10, 2023, from Bolu Provincial Health Directorate
- Euronews. (2022, January 24). Retrieved on March 10, 2023, from Euronews
- Acıbadem. Retrieved on March 9, 2023, from Acıbadem
- Acıbadem Hayat. Retrieved on March 9, 2023, from Acıbadem Hayat
