The Latest News About Obesity

The Latest News About Obesity is Alarming!

As weight increases, so do the consequences to your health. You probably already know the health issues commonly associated with excess weight and obesity; things like Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, stoke, sleep apnea, breathing problems, and increased difficulty with mobility.

The cancer link

But what you may not have heard is that those extra pounds are thought to be linked to the development of cancer, especially cancer of the breast, esophagus, uterus, kidney and colon. Evidence also supports a probable link between excess weight and a higher risk of developing cancer of the pancreas, gallbladder, ovaries, and thyroid.

According to the National Cancer Institute, a whopping 14% of cancer deaths in men and 20% of cancer deaths in women have been attributed to excess weight or obesity! If the increased risk of heart disease, sleeping and mobility problems aren’t enough to motivate you to start living a healthier lifestyle, maybe the potential link to cancer will.

But if not, here’s something else to think about as you ponder whether to sit on the couch tonight with a bag of potato chips or take a walk around the block:
If you’re a woman, and you’re middle-aged, the extra weight you’re carrying around could prevent you from living a long, healthy life!

That bag of chips doesn’t sound so appetizing right now, does it?

How much excess weight is too much?

You’re probably wondering how much excess weight puts you at higher risk of developing the types of health issues mentioned above. That gets a little complicated, but the guidelines that determine healthy weight versus overweight versus obesity are based on a calculation of your body’s height and your body’s weight. The resulting number is called BMI or Body Mass Index.

We all have a weight range that’s considered healthy for our height. However, when we gain weight, the excess weight can put the percentage of body fat your body carries into dangerous territory.

• A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy.
• An overweight adult has a BMI between25 and 29.9.
• An obese adult has a BMI of 30 or higher.

If you’re uncomfortable with your weight, or are already experiencing health issues because of excess weight, you probably don’t need to figure out your actual BMI. You already know what you have to do to live a longer, happier life.

You need to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

That means eating more of the right foods, getting your body in motion, and doing a better job managing your weight. Instead of calorie-dense foods, start eating nutrient-dense foods like whole grains, lean protein, vegetables, fruits, and “good” fats.

Also try changing the way you think about exercise. Exercise doesn’t have to mean grueling and intimidating workouts at the gym. Instead, do what you enjoy. Play tennis, bike, walk, swim, dance, or kayak. The point is to get your body moving.

If you find it difficult to make these changes on your own then change for the people ones you love. They want you around as long as possible!