Risk Factors & More

Risk Factors and Symptoms of Obesity
Some of the risk factors for obesity and overweight are the same. For example, some people are predisposed or have a genetic history that causes them to be more likely to become overweight. This does not mean that everyone with a genetic tendency toward a larger bone structure or body will become obese.

Often, individuals use genetics to explain away a lot of poor health, health that often results from lifestyle factors along with genetic factors. It is true some people do have genetic factors that may predispose them to conditions, including diabetes or hypothyroidism which may contribute to obesity.

However, ultimately people that are overweight and obese take in more calories than their body burns. This results in weight gain. People that eat processed foods or foods that are high in fat and do not exercise regularly are more likely to be overweight or obese than those that are not. The best foods are those that provide the body with essential nutrients. These include whole, unprocessed foods like lean proteins, vegetables, whole grains and fruits.

How Do I Know if I am Obese?
Chances are good if you are obese you will know. Doctors calculate a person's health partially through use of a tool called a BMI, or body mass index. This tool compares your height and weight to determine whether you qualify as normal, overweight, obese or even underweight.

Once your doctor calculates your BMI, you can work with your doctor and/or a nutritionist to help you develop a safe and sound weight loss program that will incorporate healthy eating and more exercise when possible.

If your doctor finds you are overweight but not obese, lowering your body weight by a mere 10 pounds can have a dramatic impact on your body, by decreasing your odds of cardiovascular and related diseases.

What Can I Do if I am Obese?
If you have a family history of overweight or obesity or are trying to lose weight, the first step you should take is to see your doctor. Your doctor may recommend you visit with a nutritionist and a personal trainer or physical therapist. By working with these specialists, you can develop an individualized program for fighting obesity and overweight, one that meets your needs and takes your lifestyle into consideration.

Exercise is crucial to your health. If you exercise regularly and monitor your caloric intake, you are more likely to burn fat and gain muscle. Once you gain muscle, you may find you can eat more without gaining weight, because muscle weighs more than fat does.

Strength training is a good form of exercise for building muscle. If however, you build muscle over fat you are likely to appear larger because your fat will sit atop your newly developed muscles. Many people find it is better to first start with cardiovascular exercises and then work their way to strength training once they start seeing positive progress.

When you do start building muscle, your body's metabolism will kick into high gear, allowing you to burn calories more efficiently. While exercise is not a license to eat anything you want, it can help you maintain a sleek and toned figure. Just remember to talk with a medical health professional before you begin any diet or exercise program, so you do not engage in any activities that may jeopardize your overall health and wellness.