According to The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute being overweight is defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25-29.9 and obese as haing a BMI of 30 or greater.
Being obese means that you have a large amount of extra body fat which in turn puts you at greater risk for serious health problems that include:
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Heart Disease and Stroke
- Cancer
- Sleep Apnea
- Osteoarthritis
- Gallbladder Disease
- Hypertenstion
- Dyslipidemia
Factors that contribute to overweight and obesity are:
- Energy Imbalance-this happens when you consume more calories than the number of calories that are being used through activity.
- Environment-many times your environment can limit you in ways to stay healthy and my lead to you being overweight or obese. For example, you will not walk because there are no sidewalks.
- Genetics-Genes do not automatically destine you to be obese, but they can increase your susceptibility.
Links
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – The CDC has good information about the obesity epidemic and many other links for more information.
American Obesity Association – This is a childhood obesity site. Childhood obesity is a growing problem in the United States and it is important to make yourself aware of this serious issue.
Health & Human Services – This is the surgeon general’s call to action to prevent and decrease overweight and obesity.
American Heart Association – Obesity contributes to many health problems and one of them is heart problems. This site will give you knowlede and a basic understanding of what obesity is and also some great tips.
Weight-control Information Network – For more information regarding adult obesity visit this site.
Everyday Choices – The American Cancer Society, American Diabetes Association, and American Heart Association agree—you can significantly impact your health through your everyday choices. This site is designed to provide you and your family with the support you need to live a healthier life. Protect yourself today.