Overweight and Obesity

Contents:

What Are Overweight and Obesity?

Overweight and obesity are often evaluated using the Body Mass Index (BMI), which considers the ratio of height to weight. Overweight is a condition, while obesity is classified as a chronic disease. In addition to BMI, factors such as waist circumference, lifestyle, and overall health are considered.

Obesity can increase the risk of various conditions, including:

  • High blood pressure
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Elevated blood lipid levels
  • Cardiovascular diseases
  • Joint pain and osteoarthritis
  • Sleep apnea
  • Gallstones
  • Mental health issues, such as depression

Causes of Overweight and Obesity

Overweight is often caused by a long-term energy surplus, where more calories are consumed than burned. This imbalance between diet and physical activity is a primary factor, but genetic predisposition and hormonal changes can also contribute. Additionally, mental health and stress can create unique challenges in weight management.

Common Causes of Overweight and Obesity:

  • Diet: High-calorie and irregular eating habits increase the risk of overweight.
  • Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle is a common reason for weight gain.
  • Psychological factors: Stress and mental health conditions, such as depression, can affect eating behaviors.
  • Genetics: Genetic factors may predispose individuals to overweight and obesity.
  • Certain medical conditions and medications: For example, hypothyroidism or specific medications can contribute to weight gain.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If overweight leads to health problems, professional support may be necessary for weight management. Medical evaluation often includes checking blood pressure, blood sugar, and lipid levels. Treatment typically focuses on lifestyle changes aimed at a healthy diet and increased physical activity. For more challenging cases, medication or, in rare instances, bariatric surgery may be considered.

Self-Care Instructions

Supporting weight management involves diversifying your diet, eating regular meals, and engaging in daily physical activity. Healthy lifestyle choices not only promote weight management but also improve overall well-being and reduce health risks.

Self-Help Tips:

  • Improve eating habits: Reduce sugar, refined carbohydrates, and saturated fats.
  • Be active daily: Walking, taking the stairs, and regular exercise are beneficial.
  • Eat regularly: Balanced meals and snacks keep metabolism steady.
  • Prioritize sleep: Sufficient rest supports metabolism and overall wellness.
  • Care for mental well-being: Address stress and mood issues that can complicate weight management.

When to seek medical care?

Medical care should be sought if overweight begins to impair daily functioning or leads to physical or mental symptoms. Healthcare professionals can provide support and guidance for weight management and may refer for additional evaluations and treatments if necessary.

How Can Dokport Help?

At Dokport’s online medical clinic, we can provide limited assistance with managing obesity. Our doctors can evaluate your situation through a chat consultation, offer treatment advice, or prescribe medication if necessary. If the situation requires, we recommend visiting a doctor or nurse in person.

Expert: Dr. Anna Sipilä, MD, Associate Professor of Experimental Internal Medicine

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