What is Obesity?

Millions in the US and around the world are overeating and many have become obese. Obesity is a disease that can happen to anyone but especially to those who take in more calories than they burn off through exercise. At this point in time, there are no concrete causes for obesity–except for overeating of course; however, there are factors that contribute to obesity such as the kind of work a person does, a person’s family history, one’s race and the environment a person lives in. Obesity as defined by the free online dictionary is: "an abnormal accumulation of body fat, usually 20% or more over an individual’s ideal body weight. Obesity is associated with increased risk of illness, disability, and death." It is important to note that the branch of medicine that deals with the examination and various treatments of obesity is bariatrics.

What Causes Obesity?

It is so easy to become overweight in the U.S.–with the many fast food restaurants and fattening foods that are served up at these restaurants every day and the many varieties of high calorie foods we see in our grocery stores. And for many, food is a high point in their lives. When we gather with friends and family in our homes or at work, food is often the focal point of the activities. Also, it’s a fact that when we are stressed out or depressed, we sometimes overeat to help us cope with the stress and anxiety we deal with in our lives.

Get up and Get Moving!

Some of us hate to exercise and it’s much easier to sit in front of the TV and watch a program than to exercise. In addition, much of the time we use cars, remote controls for our TVs and elevators to get us to where we’re going. However, by making a few changes in our lives, we can overcome obesity and lose those unneeded pounds! For instance, walking your dog or waxing your car burns up several hundred calories and taking a half hour walk during the day, also burns up about 200 calories. Housework and riding a bike are also good ways to burn off some calories. Any activity that keeps you moving can get the weight off and help keep you lean and fit.

When Should you Get Help for Obesity?

The time to call your doctor is if you are having emotional problems or want to lose weight but are unable to do so. Also, if your BMI is over 30, you are considered to be obese and that may be the time to speak with your doctor about how to lose weight and what exercise programs are right for you.

Too Much TV or Computer Work?

Watching too much TV, working or playing on a computer is not good and over time can put on pounds that are unwanted or needed. Even social networking–as enjoyable as it is–can be a contributing factor in obesity.

To conclude, with obesity a nationwide illness for many, perhaps it’s time to put away the computers, the social media programs and the TV and change our lifestyles from sitting too long to one of getting involved in some exercise programs, eating in moderation and putting away the high calorie snacks! The answer to obesity lies within each person and all it takes is a plan, motivation and a desire to look and feel better.