What is Obesity?

WHAT IS OBESITY?

Obestiy is a serious medical disease. Experts agree there are three major factors contributing to obesity: genetics, environment and lifestyle. These factors can result in a gradual health breakdown. Fat cells secrete inflammatory chemicals into our bloodstream that can adversely affect our heart and health. Excess weight or obesity boost our risk for many conditions, including: type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, gallbladder disease, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea etc. Over 7% of adults in the U.S. are diabetic. Three per cent have diabetes and don't know it. 54 million are pre-diabetic and completely unaware.

Pre-diabetes is a condition in which your blood sugar level is higher then normal, but not high enough to be type 2 diabetes. Risk factors for pre-diabetes include being overweight or obese, inactivity, and family history. Pre-diabetes is also prevalent among African-Americans, Latinos, Native Americans and Asian Americans. As you get older the risks increase, especially after 45. It has been found that losing 10% of your body weight can prevent or delay the development of Type 2 diabetes. Pre-diabetes can be prevented with healthy eating and exercise. A registered dietitian who is a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) can develop a plan for you.

One in every four American adults is living with a potentially life threatening condition known as metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome health conditions include: increased blood pressure, elevated glucose levels, abnormal cholesterol levels, etc. Metabolic syndrome can be reveresed through weight loss and increased physical activity. If you feel at risk contact your healthcare provider.

Find out more about exercise and strenght training at: exercise.about.com/cs/exbeginners/a/begstrength.htm. Remember to check with your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program. See our new Control-IT program and our Holistic Health Practitioner for more information concerning weight loss or call our office at 866.980.5264 and speak with Laura.