Obesity - Renew Health Clinic

Obesity is defined as an accumulation of excess body fat that presents a risk to one's health. The most common method to determine if someone is obese is by calculating their body mass index (BMI). A BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese. Obesity occurs when a person's energy intake from food and drink exceeds the energy expended through normal bodily functions and physical activity over an extended period of time. This causes the body to store excess calories as body fat. There are many complex factors that influence the development of obesity, including:

• Genetics - some people inherit a predisposition to gain weight more easily
• Lifestyle factors - lack of physical activity, poor diet, excessive alcohol intake, lack of sleep, high stress levels
• Medical conditions - hormone imbalances, injuries/disabilities limiting mobility, certain medications that increase appetite/weight gain
• Socioeconomic factors - lack of access to healthy foods, safe areas for exercise

The health consequences of obesity are substantial. Excess weight puts strain on bodily systems and increases the risk for myriad conditions like:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Certain cancers
• Osteoarthritis
• Sleep apnea

Beyond physical repercussions, obesity can negatively impact one's mental health and quality of life. The good news is that even modest weight loss (5-10% of body weight) can lead to significant health improvements. Losing weight requires long-term changes - there are no quick fixes. The most sustainable approach focuses on incremental lifestyle changes like:

• Increasing physical activity
• Eating more vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
• Monitoring portion sizes
• Reducing processed/high-calorie foods and sugary drinks

With commitment and support, people can overcome obesity. The first step is talking to your doctor at Renew Health Clinic to address any underlying issues and create a customized weight loss plan. Lifestyle changes require patience but can truly transform your health.