Being overweight with a body mass index over 30 is referred to as obesity and it is a growing concern in major cities today. This is due to a combination of unhealthy lifestyle habits, including consuming high-calorie foods and having little physical activity. Obesity does not happen overnight but is a result of the choices made throughout one’s life. Eating habits, including consuming processed foods like potato chips, sugar-sweetened beverages, drinking alcohol in excess, and overeating, as well as medical conditions can contribute to excessive weight gain.
It is crucial to address obesity, as it not only causes physical changes but also increases the risk of life-threatening conditions like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer. Moreover, obesity can negatively impact an individual’s quality of life, leading to issues like depression and low self-esteem.
Physical Causes of Obesity
The weight gain that leads to obesity is a slow and gradual process. It is the result of a series of choices made in your life that eventually lead to your weight spiraling out of control. The type of food you eat on a daily basis plays a big role in your overall health and well-being. Without physical activity, some habits can lead to excessive weight gain, including:
- Consuming processed foods like potato chips
- Sugary drinks like soda and ice-cream
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Eating larger portions than necessary
- Comfort eating
- Medical conditions.
It is crucial to tackle obesity, as it not only leads to noticeable physical changes, but also increases the risk of several serious health problems such as:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Certain types of cancer such as breast cancer and bowel cancer Moreover, obesity can negatively impact one’s quality of life and cause psychological issues like depression and low self-esteem.
Tackling obesity is critical, as it not only leads to physical changes but can also increase the risk of several serious health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. The best approach to treating obesity is to adopt a healthy diet with reduced calorie intake and engaging in regular exercise.
While exercise and counting calories may seem daunting, the benefits far outweigh the difficulties. In addition to physical benefits, exercise can also have an immediate positive impact on mental health and self-esteem. A healthy weight loss journey doesn’t have to be expensive, you don’t need a gym membership, just the determination to change and improve your health.
When starting an exercise regimen, it’s important to consider your current fitness level and endurance. A routine can be tailored to your needs and can include cardio, aerobics, calisthenics, and strength training, among others. For a more intensive workout, one can try High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), which involves alternating short, intense periods of exercise with less intense recovery periods. HIIT can be done with or without equipment and can be adjusted to suit your level of fitness.
For those new to HIIT, it’s advisable to start with body weight exercises and other forms of cardio to build up confidence and endurance. Before trying any new exercise, it’s recommended to familiarize yourself with the proper form to reduce the risk of injury. It’s also helpful to consult the internet for clear instructions and modifications. Start with 1-minute exercises and rest for 15 seconds between activities.
- Burpees
- Jumping jacks
- Mountain Climbers
- Push-ups
- Running in place (High Stepping)
To achieve weight loss success, it is crucial to be persistent and engage in physical activities daily to burn calories and reach your desired weight. Don’t let extra weight get the best of you, it’s time to regain control.
