The prevalence of overweight and obesity has increased dramatically over the past 35 years. In the U.S., more than one-third of adults are obese and another one-third are overweight. Obesity is associated with a wide range of health problems including cardiovascular disease; diabetes mellitus; musculoskeletal disorders; certain cancers; and other chronic diseases such as hypertension, elevated blood cholesterol levels, stroke and respiratory problems (1). In addition to these risks, obesity can also lead to social stigmatization. Individuals who are overweight or obese often experience discrimination in their personal and professional lives (2).
In the U.S., there has been a sharp increase in the number of people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), which is strongly correlated with obesity (3). According to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), T2DM affects 8% of adults aged 20 years or older in the U.S., which translates into roughly 30 million Americans (4). T2DM increases an individual's risk for developing serious complications such as heart attack, stroke and kidney failure (5).
Obesity is a serious health condition that affects millions of people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 40% of adults and 17% of children in the U.S. are obese.1 Obesity is also linked to heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers and other chronic diseases.2
The CDC defines obesity as having a BMI (body mass index) greater than or equal to 30 kg/m2.3 BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared (kg/m2).4
Body Mass Index Categories:
Normal weight — 18.5 to 24.9
Overweight — 25 to 29.9
Obese — 30 or more.
The fall season is in full swing, and with it comes the inevitable weight gain that comes with the holiday season. If you’re looking to get back on track with your fitness and health goals, here are some tips for successful weight management in fall 2022.
Get Moving
The best way to stay fit and healthy is through exercise. Make sure you’re getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. You can start by walking around the block, or if you have time, walk around the neighborhood. You can also try taking the stairs instead of elevators or escalators when possible.
Eat Healthy Food
Eating healthy food is one of the best ways to lose weight and maintain your weight loss over time. While there are no “miracle foods” that cause immediate weight loss without any effort, eating a balanced diet can help you maintain your ideal weight over time. If you want to lose weight faster, try tracking what you eat using an app like MyFitnessPal so that you know exactly how many calories are going into your body each day.
Track your progress. You’ll be more motivated if you know exactly how well you’re doing compared to where you started. It also helps to keep yourself accountable by sharing an update every week or two with friends or family members who are following along with their own goals as well.
Drink plenty of water every day—at least eight 8-ounce glasses per day—to help keep your metabolism working efficiently and prevent dehydration from contributing to fatigue during the day
Don’t skip meals; instead eat three meals a day plus two snacks if needed (one midmorning and one midafternoon). Eating regular meals helps keep blood sugar levels stable so they don’t spike after eating.
If you have more questions, please feel free to message us on our website Spring Endocrinology.