Nutrition and health science are constantly evolving. And recently a wide range of independent studies have shown the relationship between excess body fat and health risks.
The main conclusion indicates that anyone who is considerably overweight is at higher risk for health problems, such as various forms of heart condition, high blood pressure, diabetes, colon cancer, liver damage, gallstones and others.
But what is 'considerably overweight'?
There's no ideal weight for any given individual, though there are various factors that provide a healthy range. One type of measurement that determines the amount of body fat is the height and weight scale. Another measurement tool is the BMI (Body Mass Index). To calculate it, just divide your weight (in kg) by your height (in m) squared. Both types of measurement can determine the amount of excess body fat.
For those individuals who find themselves on the lower end of the BMI scale, their health risks are no more (or at most only moderately higher) than for anyone. Genetic and other environmental factors will outweigh any body fat or weight issues. But for those nearer the higher range, there is strong evidence that health risks are higher.
Men who have abdominal obesity (having large fat deposits around the stomach and abdomen) are linked with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and insulin resistance syndrome. Women who have a waist circumference of 35 inches or more (40+ in men) are considered as having abdominal obesity. Other common factors associated with that condition are high blood pressure, high triglycerides and high cholesterol.
Excessive body fat is a factor in producing narrowing of the arteries, atherosclerosis, and the possibility of a clot which can cause a stroke. At the same time, it plays a part in increased blood pressure (hypertension).
The odds of developing Type 2 diabetes are increased by those who experience rapid weight gain, from 10-20 lbs for the average person. Genetic factors are fundamental, but weight gain plays a role, according to most studies. The risk is double that of an individual who has not had a weight gain, when other factors are held constant.
Liver disease can be caused by insulin resistance. That resistance is much more likely among those who are obese. There are many studies which have shown the correlation between BMI with the degree of liver damage. The higher the BMI, the greater the odds of liver trouble.
And yet another situation commonly associated with obesity is sleep apnea (interruption of breathing during sleep).
In short, though no single study is definitive, and there are many genetic and other environmental elements, there seems to be a correlation between excessive body fat and health risks.. Being overweight is not merely an issue of acceptable appearance,but a danger to one's health. Gary Machado writes on a variety of topics on health issues.
Gary Machado writes on a variety of topics on health issues. Did you find these tips on
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