Obesity is a health problem caused by excessive accumulation of fat in the body. A body mass index (BMI) measurement is often used to determine whether a person is obese. BMI is calculated as a person’s weight in kilograms divided by the square of their height in meters.
People with a BMI over 30 are considered obese. Obesity can occur as a result of the interaction of many factors such as genetic factors, eating habits, lack of physical activity, lifestyle and environmental factors.
Obesity can cause many health problems such as heart diseases, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, bone and joint diseases, sleep apnea and fatty liver disease.
Obesity is a condition usually characterized by excess weight. Signs and symptoms of obesity usually consist of observable physical and emotional signs. Symptoms of obesity may include
- Significant increase in body weight: Weight gain, body mass index above the obese limit, rapid and continuous weight gain.
- Inability to carry the weight: Symptoms such as difficulty in physical activities, limitation of movement, fatigue, difficulty breathing due to heavy weight.
- Fat around the neck and waist: Significant fat in the belly area, enlargement around the waist.
- Skin problems: Skin problems such as skin irritations caused by friction on the body, cellulite, stretch marks.
- Respiratory problems: Problems such as sleep apnea, snoring, breathing difficulties.
- Metabolic disorders: Metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol.
- Emotional symptoms: Emotional problems such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, social isolation can often be associated with obesity.
Obesity is a complex condition that can be caused by a combination of many different factors. The main causes of obesity can be
- Eating habits: Consuming high amounts of fatty and sugary foods, preferring fast food and processed foods can increase the risk of obesity.
- Low level of physical activity: Not exercising regularly, leading a sedentary lifestyle, sedentary work or prolonged sitting habits can contribute to obesity.
- Genetic factors: Some genetic factors can lead to a tendency towards obesity. The risk of obesity may increase in people with a family history of obesity.
- Hormonal imbalances: Conditions such as hormonal imbalance and thyroid diseases can cause obesity.
- Psychological factors: Psychological factors such as stress, depression, emotional eating can trigger obesity.
- Medications: Some medications can increase the risk of obesity. Drugs such as antidepressants and corticosteroids can lead to obesity.
- Environmental factors: Environmental factors such as lifestyle, social environment, advertisements, product choices in markets can affect obesity.
- Nutrition: Eat a balanced, low-calorie diet, control portions and avoid unhealthy foods such as fast food.
- Exercise: Do at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week, turn to resistance training and increase your daily activities.
- Behavior changes: Recognize emotional eating habits, learn stress management techniques and join support groups.
- Medication: If medication is necessary, take it regularly at the dose and duration recommended by your doctor.
- Surgical intervention: In cases of extreme obesity and when other treatment methods do not work, you may consider surgical intervention as an option. However, evaluate this decision together with your specialist doctor.
Obesity treatment is a long-term process and requires patience. Create a personalized treatment plan with expert help, follow up regularly and adopt healthy lifestyle habits.
The causes of obesity are varied and are often a combination of multiple factors. The main causes include genetic predisposition, unhealthy eating habits, inadequate physical activity, hormonal imbalances, certain medications and psychological factors.
Obesity is usually diagnosed by calculating BMI. A BMI between 25-29.9 is classified as overweight, while a BMI of 30 and above is classified as obesity. Waist circumference and body fat percentage are also assessed. Doctors may use laboratory tests and imaging methods in combination with the patient’s medical history and physical examination.
Obesity can lead to many serious health problems. These include heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, some types of cancer, osteoarthritis and liver disease. Obesity can also reduce quality of life and cause psychological problems.
A balanced and healthy diet, regular physical activity and healthy lifestyle habits should be adopted to prevent obesity. It is important to consume enough fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, and avoid excessive calories, sugar and fatty foods. Regular exercise, getting enough sleep and managing stress can also reduce the risk of obesity.
Multiple methods can be used to treat obesity. These methods include lifestyle changes, diet and exercise programs, behavioral therapy, medication and surgical interventions (bariatric surgery). The treatment plan is determined according to the patient’s general health status, degree of obesity and individual needs.
Obesity surgery is usually considered for individuals with a BMI of 40 and above or with a BMI between 35-39.9 who have serious obesity-related health problems (e.g. diabetes, hypertension). Surgical intervention may be a viable option for patients who have not had successful results with other treatment modalities and who carry serious health risks.
To prevent obesity in children, it is important for families to encourage healthy eating habits, direct children to regular physical activity and limit screen time. Encouraging children to eat healthy foods, limiting fast food and junk food consumption, doing sports together and setting an example are also effective methods.
Genetic factors can affect the risk of obesity. Individuals with a family history of obesity are more likely to develop obesity. However, genetic predisposition is not the only cause of obesity. Environmental factors, lifestyle and eating habits also play an important role in the development of obesity.
Obesity significantly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes. Excess body fat can lead to insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance causes the pancreas to produce more insulin, which over time leads to the pancreas losing its function and developing type 2 diabetes. Therefore, weight management and a healthy lifestyle are critical in the prevention and management of diabetes.
Yes, there is a two-way relationship between obesity and depression. Obesity can increase the risk of depression due to issues such as body image, self-esteem and social isolation. Depression can also contribute to weight gain and obesity by leading to behaviors such as overeating and inactivity. Therefore, addressing obesity and depression together is important to manage both conditions.
