Have you ever heard of the false consolation of “healthy obesity”? Know now the dangers behind it
According to data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), there are more than 20 million obese people in Brazil. In the adult population, 12.5% of men and 16.9% of women are obese and about 50% are overweight (overweight).
Furthermore, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that by 2030 more than half of the world will be obese.
In recent years there has been a lot of talk about the so-called “healthy obesity”. Some believe it is possible to be obese and still be in good health. However, recent studies show that this concept is a myth.
Risks of premature death
A comprehensive study published by the renowned journal Annals for Internal Medicine has revealed alarming data. The research analyzed more than 61,000 patients and found that even obese individuals with no apparent metabolic problems have a 24% higher risk of premature death caused by sudden problems, such as a heart attack, compared to people of normal weight. This finding challenges the so-called obesity paradox and refutes the idea that obesity can be healthy.
Endocrinology specialist William Hafemann Viana explains that obesity is a medical condition characterized by excessive accumulation of body fat.
“The causes of obesity are multifactorial, involving a combination of genetic, environmental, behavioral and metabolic factors. Poor diet, sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity, stress and genetic predisposition can contribute to the development of obesity. ‘obesity,” he explains.
Symptoms and risks of obesity
Clothes that no longer fit, difficulty carrying out some daily activities such as tying your shoes, an increase in the pointer of the scale and an increased desire to eat are some common signs and symptoms. However, these are not the only symptoms. People with obesity may have one or more of the following signs:
- • Episodes of sleep apnea;
- • Difficulty moving;
- • frequent tiredness;
- • Menstrual cycle disorders in women;
- • Shortness of breath due to weight on the lungs;
- • Dermatitis and infections caused by the formation of fungi in possible folds formed by the skin;
- • The body aches frequently.
“Obesity carries with it a number of health risks. The accumulation of fat in the arteries increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as angina and myocardial infarction. In addition, obesity is related to an increased risk of diabetes type 2, accumulation of fat in the liver, cerebrovascular accident (CVA), memory difficulties, high blood pressure, some types of cancer, joint problems, erection problems, sexual impotence, blindness and even psychological complications, such as depression”, says the doctor.
The myth of “healthy obesity”
William Hofemann Viana comments that it had long been believed that some obese people could be metabolically compensated, i.e., free from obesity-associated diseases, and thus considered healthy. However, experts have always questioned this claim. Even if an obese person shows no laboratory changes at a specific time, obesity itself is considered a disease. Being overweight, for example, is already a predisposing condition to obesity.
“Understanding that obesity cannot be considered healthy is the first step in taking adequate measures to prevent and fight it. It is essential to adopt a healthy lifestyle, this is essential to prevent and fight obesity,” she says.
Here are 5 guidelines to help with this process:
- 1. Balanced diet
“Opt for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid processed foods, foods high in saturated fats, added sugars, and excess sodium. Consult an expert for personalized guidelines,” says Viana.
- 2. Regular physical activity
Regular exercise is essential for weight loss and maintaining health. Look for physical activities that suit your conditioning and personal interests. Walking, jogging, swimming, weight training and yoga are all popular options. Consulting a professional can help you create an exercise plan that’s right for you.
- 3. Stress management
“Chronic stress can trigger weight gain and make weight loss more difficult. Find healthy ways to deal with stress, such as practicing relaxation techniques, exercise, meditation, or therapy.”
- 4. Medical checkup
See a doctor or endocrinologist to assess your overall health, discuss treatment options, and get personalized advice. Adequate medical follow-up is essential to identify and treat possible obesity-related health problems.
- 5. Changing habits
“To fight obesity, you need to make sustainable lifestyle changes. Set realistic goals and focus on incorporating long-term healthy habits, rather than just focusing on rapid weight loss,” she warns.
“Healthy” obesity is a myth
It’s important to recognize that the idea of ”healthy obesity” is a myth. Research consistently shows that obesity is associated with an increased risk of health complications and premature death, even in the absence of apparent metabolic problems. The fight against obesity requires a multidisciplinary approach.
“There is no time to waste when it comes to tackling obesity. It is essential to be aware of the risks involved, seek professional support and adopt a healthy lifestyle. By fighting obesity, we are investing in our long-term health and well-being,” concludes William Hafemann Viana.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
