In North America, the rate of obesity has been steadily climbing over the years. This has lead many professionals to declare a national health crisis. A person is considered obese if they have more than 20% extra body fat than one should have for their particular gender, height, or age. This extra accumulation of fat can lead to serious health consequences. There many weight loss products on the market that often don't help one gain the needed results to live a healthier lifestyle. One method of weight loss that many obese people are choosing is weight loss surgery.
There are many factors that contribute to obesity. They can include a lifestyle of very little physical activity, genetic predisposition, poor diet, eating disorders, certain medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, not learning the proper way to eat as a child, emotional issues such as depression and low self esteem, as well as poor metabolism. Whatever the reason for the cause of obesity, one must consider the health implications of obesity.
The following health problems associated with obesity has become a major factor determining factor when considering weight loss surgery.
Heart Disease: People who are obese are at a higher risk of chest pain, angina, heart failure, and a heart attack.
Stroke: Excess fat increases the risk of a stroke due to narrowing of the arteries caused by high blood pressure, lack of exercise, and high fat diet.
Diabetes: Researcher shows that obesity is linked to diabetes. Diabetes is serious illness that requires a lifetime of medications.
Cancer: Obesity has been linked to a number of cancers such as kidney, gall bladder, breast, prostate, and colon cancer.
Liver Disease: Research has shown a connection between body mass index (BMI) and the extent of liver damage. Generally, the higher the BMI, the worse the liver disease. This is also true for gall bladder disease.
Respiratory Problems: Obese people are at a higher risk of lung conditions that affects their ability to breathe normally. Laboured breathing also puts added strain on the heart.
Joint and Bone Problems: Obesity is associated with an increase in conditions such as arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Weight loss surgery is a serious decision that patients make with their doctors and other health professionals. It is normally provided to people who are at a high risk of developing a disease or serious medical condition. It is not a cosmetic procedure, but often a lifesaving surgery. Candidates must be at least 100 pounds over your ideal weight and ready for a permanent weight loss solution. Most times one will elect to have weight loss surgery after they have tried more traditional means of weight loss such as diet and exercise.
Because obesity can affect people in a variety of ways, it is important to consult with a doctor about the risks and benefits. Candidates have to be willing to make serious life changes. If you are an obese person who has tried most traditional weight loss programs, and have failed to achieve healthy weight loss, surgery may be a good option. Make sure before you have surgery that you consult with your regular physician. Weight loss surgery is not a quick fix to losing weight. One has to be committed to a long term healthy lifestyle.
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