Obesity Linked To Multiple Female Reproductive Disorders: Study

Obesity puts you at risk of several health-related issues. It increases your chances of cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, type-2 diabetes, among others. It is detrimental to reproductive health as well. The link between weight and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a well-known fact. A recent study conducted in the United Kingdom has found a link between obesity and multiple female reproductive disorders, further reinstating the need to lose weight. 

About The Study

In this study, the researchers aimed to find links between obesity and female reproductive disorders.

• For it, the scientists did a randomized study of 257,193 women.
• All of them were of European ancestry and between the ages of 40 and 69. 
• For the study, they analysed the UK Biobank records.
• They then, through a statistical model, estimated the link between BMI (body mass index), waist-to-hip ratio, and female reproductive disorders.

The research was published in the PLOS Medicine journal.

Also read: Can Weight Loss Cut Down Your Risk Of Colorectal Cancer? Study Sheds Light

Obesity & Female Reproductive Disorders: Study Findings

(Photo Credit: Freepik)

The study found a link between obesity and a range of female reproductive disorders. The female reproductive disorders that the study found to be linked to obesity included polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), heavy menstrual bleeding, uterine fibroids, and pre-eclampsia.

• PCOS is a hormonal disorder in women characterised by irregular periods, weight-related issues, facial hair growth, and insulin resistance.
• Uterine fibroids generally develop during childbearing age. It is characterised by noncancerous growths in the uterus.
• Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterised by high blood pressure that can further lead to serious implications.

The researchers wrote that they found an aetiological link between obesity and several female reproductive disorders. The link, however, differs between conditions. They further highlighted the need to study these associations to target disease prevention and treatment in the long run.

Also read: Menopause And Weight Gain: Experts Suggests Tips To Prevent It

Tips On Losing & Managing Weight

Although no small task, you can lose and manage weight by doing the following:

• Diet: Watching your calorie intake is crucial to losing weight. Not just the number of calories, their source matters too to ensure good health. Hence, eat lots of seasonal fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, proteins, and healthy fats. At the same time, limit your intake of packaged and processed foods. Drink plenty of water and avoid sugar-sweetened beverages.
• Exercise: Physical activity is a pillar of weight management and health. Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Apart from duration and intensity, you must also pay attention to the type of physical activity. Choose the one that suits your personality so that you are consistent with eating and can reap the benefits for a long time.
• Stress: Not many people understand the link between stress and weight. Research suggests that the stress hormone, called cortisol, makes you gain belly fat. Hence, stress management is crucial for weight management. Hence, meditate, do Yoga, and engage in recreational activities.
• Sleep: Enough sleep is crucial for a healthy body and mind. When you are sleep-deprived, you eat unhealthily. Hence, get the requite 7-8 hours of sleep daily.

Obesity is a bane for health. Apart from lifestyle, several factors and diseases can cause weight gain. Hence, if you are unable to lose weight despite making the requisite efforts, then get yourself checked by a doctor. Knowing the cause will help you to lose and manage weight in a better way.

Photo Credit: Freepik