Obesity is a complex disease involving an excessive amount of body fat that increases the risk of other health problems. Obesity is diagnosed when someone's body mass index (BMI) is 30 or higher. BMI is calculated using a person's height and weight; a BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight. Obesity can cause serious health issues like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, obesity may lead to diseases like osteoarthritis, liver and gallbladder disease, gynecomastia, and sleep apnea.
There are many factors that may contribute to obesity, including genetic factors like genes and hormones, health conditions like hypothyroidism and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and certain medications. However, the main causes are unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity. Eating high-calorie foods like fast food and processed foods and beverages packed with sugar, as well as not exercising regularly, can easily lead to excessive weight gain over time. Portion sizes have increased drastically over the past few decades, and most people underestimate how many calories they actually consume. Stress and emotional factors like depression may also promote overeating and obesity in some individuals.
Luckily, obesity can often be prevented and treated through lifestyle changes. Eating a healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein while limiting sugar, saturated fats, and processed foods can help promote weight loss. Aim for 300-500 fewer calories per day than your maintenance level. Exercise regularly - even just 30 minutes of activity 3-5 times per week can make a difference. Strength training helps build muscle mass that burns more calories around the clock. Making behavioral changes like mindful eating, adequate sleep, and stress management are also beneficial. For some, weight loss medications or even bariatric surgery may be appropriate options under medical supervision.
If you're struggling with obesity, contact the caring professionals at Hormone Harmony Clinic. Their experienced physicians can provide advanced hormone testing to see if a hormonal imbalance like low testosterone or high cortisol may be contributing to stubborn weight gain. Based on your lab results, their integrative approach combines customized hormone replacement therapy using bioidentical hormones with tailored nutritional and fitness guidance to help patients successfully slim down and regain health. Convenient telemedicine appointments make it easy to access their proven protocols. Call now to schedule a consultation - this comprehensive approach could finally provide the lasting results you deserve!