How long does Obesity last?

Obesity is referred to a condition in which a person has a high amount of fat in the body. Excess of body fat can be assessed in several ways with body mass index being the most widely used method. Body mass index (BMI) is measured by dividing weight in kilograms by height in metres squared. Those with a BMI between 30 and 40 are considered obese, while anyone beyond 40 is considered overweight (sometimes, referred to as morbidly obese).

How long does obesity last?

Obesity is a chronic, lifelong problem. In most cases, people gain weight and continue to do so. Fat keeps on accumulating, which is not easy to lose. Obesity lasts as long as one does not make changes in his/her lifestyle or has a sedentary lifestyle. How much you have to lose, your activity level and the type of treatment or weight-loss program you choose are the factors that decide the time-span of obesity.

The reasons behind obesity are as follows.

Diet

Poor diet and eating habits are the common reasons behind obesity. To help prevent obesity, one must match the number of calories consumed to the number of calories expended daily through exercise and other activities.

Inactivity

The modern advancements have made our lives easier but it has made us lazy. Today, we spend most of our time in front of television and computers. Electronic appliances help us with household chores, with minimal effort. Fewer calories are being burned because of the decline in physical activity. It leads to weight gain and, eventually, obesity.

Genetics

Genetics doesn’t make people obese but it can make them more prone to weight gain. Those with obese parents are likely to be obese themselves. A person with obese family members is more likely to be obese than a person with no obesity in the family.

Medical Problems

Medical problems can make you obese; a slow metabolism, thyroid condition and hormone disorders could be the reasons for sudden increase in weight. Neurological disorders, psychological issues (such as depression or binge eating disorders) may lead to obesity.

Weight Loss Program

Losing weight with lifestyle changes – Weight loss program is challenging; one need to stay committed and motivated to accomplish weight-loss goals. One must realise that a modest reduction in weight reap health benefits. It is not only physical activity or diet plan that will help you get your weight back on track, but a few simple lifestyle modifications such as taking stairs whenever possible or playing outdoor games with kids can work great.

When one loses weight gradually, the medical risks decrease (especially type 2 diabetes and heart disease). If you lack motivation to manage obesity and are not able to lose weight, diseases and conditions will keep getting worse.

Surgery for weight loss – Weight loss surgery is the last option for people who are dangerously obese. The gastric band or gastric bypass operation is not recommended as it is associated with potentially life-threatening conditions.

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