Obesity has become much more common today, and it differs greatly from previous generations. Being significantly overweight is also related to heredity factors, age, lifestyle choices, hormones, metabolism, and more. People today also live longer, and they often slow down their activity levels with age or because they become chronically ill.
What Do Doctors Consider Obesity to Be Today?
Obesity is defined by many doctors as a health condition in which a person accumulates excess stores of body fat in an amount that may begin to impact that person’s overall health and well-being negatively. A person is considered obese when their BMI, or body mass index, is over 30 kg/m2. This formula takes into account a person’s weight and height. Age, gender, overall health, and body type should also be considered when determining your BMI.
Negative Consequences of Obesity and Being Overweight
Obesity can have negative consequences. Many recent medical studies have shown the likely correlation between obesity and many health problems.
These health problems include:
- Heart-related problems
- Strokes
- Diabetes, especially type II
- Certain types of cancers
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- High blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- Circulation problems
- Breathing problems like sleep apnea, SOB and asthma
- Infertility issues like polycystic ovary disease
- Gallbladder disease
- Other metabolic disorders like thyroid problems
There are also links between obesity and several mental health and emotional-related disorders.
These include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Poor self-esteem
- Mood swings
- Insomnia and daytime fatigue
Obesity Can Be Effectively Treated These Days
The good news is that obesity can be safely and effectively treated, and this effort can help ward off many negative health consequences. Individuals should consult with their doctor before embarking on their weight loss regimen. Too many people try fad diets that can be harmful to the body and ineffective in keeping those lost pounds off long term. Individuals who are already suffering from poor health and those at higher risk of developing obesity-related health ailments should be especially cautious in the weight loss strategies that they undertake. While bariatric surgery may be recommended for some individuals, others may not be good candidates or may wish to avoid this invasive procedure. Choosing the right doctor can be the key to success with your future weight loss goals.
Importance of Having the Expert Guidance of a Physician Trained in Nutrition, Preventative Medicine, and Cardiovascular Health to Safely and Successfully Lose Weight
Dr. Tiffany Di Pietro is an excellent cardiologist in Fort Lauderdale who offers cardiac care and internal medicine concierge services, which now include a reliable doctor-monitored weight loss program. This program will be tailored to meet your health and weight loss goals. It is designed to help keep you safe while implementing weight loss strategies. In addition, each patient will learn simple and effective coping skills and techniques to help them keep the weight off over time.
Steps Towards Losing Weight and Promoting Lifelong Health and Wellbeing
1. A Proper Diet Is Key for Healthy Weight Loss and Better Overall Health
A nutritious diet is crucial for promoting healthy weight loss and overall health and well-being. Stay clear from fad and strict diets that promise to make you lose excessive amounts of fat and pounds in a short period. This only slows metabolism and may cause you to regain weight later. In addition, starvation diets can cause osteoporosis, heart issues, and other serious health concerns. Monitor serving sizes, eat a balanced diet, and choose healthy food sources like fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, leaner proteins, and a healthy variety of fats. Stop smoking and stay away from beverages and foods that are high in empty calories and caffeine. Avoid added sugars, additives, salt, and processed food choices. Steer clear of so-called energy drinks that are high in caffeine or over-the-counter diet aids that may cause serious heart-related issues.
Other weight loss diet tips include:
- Plan your meals in advance
- Have healthy snacks on hand
- Avoid eating in front of the TV and make meals fun
- Drink plenty of water and avoid coffee, tea, sweet drinks and alcohol
- Eat a good breakfast and limit heavier foods in the evenings
- Count calories and adjust for age, body type, and current health
2. Incorporate Moderate Activity into Your Current Lifestyle
Most physicians agree that it is imperative to add more activity to your current lifestyle to achieve better weight loss success. Start slow and build up to a moderate amount of activity regularly. Seek guidance regarding the specifics of activity addition from your physician.
Tips for incorporating activity include:
- Choose activities you enjoy
- Walk outdoors, perhaps with a pet or friend
- Add music to get you in the mood to move
- Bike to work or take the stairs
- Try dance or exercise classes or hit the gym for motivation
- Schedule your exercise into your daily regimen
- Vary your routines to avoid becoming bored
3. Small Behavioral and Lifestyle Changes Do Work
Making small changes over time can make a huge difference in your life. Try incorporating healthy foods and better habits slowly at first. Get plenty of rest, ensure your sleeping area is free from distractions, and keep the temperature comfortable for sleep. Set short—and long-term diet, weight loss, and exercise goals. Write positive affirmations about yourself and place them where you can see them throughout the day. Consider yoga or another relaxation technique, practice mindfulness while eating, or read health articles for more weight loss ideas.
Find the Right Cardiologist in Fort Lauderdale to Begin Your Weight Loss Program Today
Begin your new and healthier routine by finding a compassionate cardiologist from Fort Lauderdale soon. The friendly staff are ready to assist you on your weight loss journey.