WHAT IS OBESITY:
Obesity is characterized by excess body weight and fat.
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a widely used method to classify an individual’s health in relation to their weight. For adults, a BMI between 25 and 29.9 indicates overweight, while a BMI of 30 to 39.9 suggests obesity, and 40 or above signifies severe obesity. Although BMI has limitations, it is a useful indicator for most people.
Waist circumference is considered a better measure of excess fat, especially for those with a BMI of 25 to 34.9. Men with a waist circumference of 94cm or more and women with a waist circumference of 80cm or more are more likely to develop obesity-related health problems.
RISK OF OBESITY:
Obesity poses significant risks, leading to serious and potentially life-threatening conditions, including type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, certain cancers (such as breast and bowel cancer), and stroke. Additionally, obesity can adversely affect quality of life and contribute to psychological issues like depression and low self-esteem. Addressing obesity is crucial to preventing these health problems and promoting overall well-being.
TREATING OBESITY:
Obesity prevention is a critical aspect of maintaining overall health and well-being. Drawing insights from reputable sources, including Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, NHS Inform Scotland, and Healthline, here’s a comprehensive overview of strategies to effectively prevent obesity.
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health: Choosing Healthier Foods
- The Harvard source emphasizes the importance of making informed food choices to prevent obesity. Prioritizing a diet rich in nutritious foods, understanding portion control, and opting for healthier alternatives are highlighted as key strategies. It encourages individuals to be mindful of their dietary decisions for long-term weight management.
NHS Inform Scotland: Nutritional Guidance for Obesity Prevention
- NHS Inform Scotland provides essential nutritional guidance to prevent obesity. It emphasizes the significance of maintaining a balanced diet, incorporating a variety of food groups, and being mindful of portion sizes. The NHS stresses the importance of cultivating healthy eating habits and making sustainable lifestyle changes to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Healthline: Holistic Approaches to Obesity Prevention
- Healthline covers strategies such as regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management. It emphasizes the need for gradual, sustainable changes to foster long-term success in preventing obesity. The importance of staying informed and seeking professional guidance is also highlighted.
Therefore, tackling obesity is essential not only for addressing physical health risks but also for promoting overall well-being and preventing associated health problems.
EUROPEAN PERSPECTIVE
Extract of the French Health Insurance on nutrition tips to lose weight
- Limit the consumption of high-calorie foods (butter, sauces, cold meats, certain cheeses, pastries, biscuits, sweets).
- Cook with little fat: think about grilling, steaming or cooking in foil.
- Choose the leanest meats (e.g. veal, poultry).
- Prefer dairy products such as yogurt or cottage cheese rather than crème fraîche and cheese.
- Avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks.
- Eat at least 5 servings of fruit or vegetables, favoring vegetables. They can be raw, cooked, frozen or canned.
- Drink water as much as you like.
sources:
- https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-prevent-obesity#progress
- https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/nutritional/obesity/
- https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/obesity-prevention-source/obesity-prevention/#:~:text=Choosing%20healthier%20foods%20
- https://www.ameli.fr/assure/sante/themes/surpoids-obesite-adulte/modifier-quotidien
