Some experts estimate that 10-25% of teenagers and 20-50% of adults have a
weight problem. It's ironic that North Americans are heavier than ever despite
the increasing focus over the past few decades on weight loss, exercise, and
reduced fat intake. For most people, diets mean denial and deprivation - and
therefore cause overeating once the diet is stopped.
So what is obesity, exactly? Obesity is characterized by the accumulation of
fat tissue. Some health practitioners define obesity by the amount of fat content
of the body. Obesity is usually defined as a body fat content greater than 25%
of the total weight for males, or greater than 30% of the total weight for females.
The recommended body fat content for men is 15-18%; for women, it's 20-25%.
These percentages vary with age, increasing as we get older.
So what causes obesity? It's not just a question of eating too much - though
that can be a factor. Actually, there are many contributing factors. These can
include:
- consuming too much food energy
- low activity levels
- genetics
- body metabolism
- social factors
- economic factors
- psychological/emotional factors
So, what's all the fuss and concern? Obesity has health consequences. The complications
resulting of obesity can have a considerable negative effect on the quality
and length of a person's life. These complications can also have a significant
impact on health care costs. People who are obese are at a higher risk of numerous
illnesses, including heart attacks, strokes and diabetes. Obesity also increases
the risk of:
- heart disease
- some forms of cancer
- high blood pressure
- gall bladder problems
- reproductive problems
- sleeping problems
- osteoarthritis
- diabetes