Obesity

Obesity is becoming more widespread across the United States and is a leading cause of poor health and death. You can avoid the problems associated with obesity by calling the Vie Medical Center team in Delray Beach, Florida. The providers can assess your weight and offer techniques to help you reach a healthy weight. Call the office today to schedule a consultation or book an appointment online.

What is obesity?

Obesity is a medical condition that relates to being severely overweight. Carrying excess weight is known to be bad for health, but when you reach obesity, it means you’re at serious risk of developing health issues that could have dangerous consequences.

To be classed as obese, you need to have a BMI of 30 or over. BMI stands for body mass index, which is a rough calculation that uses your current height and weight to determine whether you’re underweight, at a healthy weight, or overweight.

A BMI of between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy, while a BMI between 25 and 29.9 is overweight. If your BMI is over 30, you’re obese, but there are also different levels of obesity. Class I obesity means having a BMI between 30 and 34.9. Class II obesity means having a BMI between 35 and 39.9. 

Class III obesity means having a BMI of 40 or over. Class III obesity is also known as morbid obesity because if you are that heavy, your risk of developing a life-altering or even life-threatening health condition is very high.

What health problems can obesity cause?

Obesity can cause or worsen many serious medical conditions, including:

• Hypertension
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Type 2 diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Arthritis
• Sleep apnea
• Gallbladder disease
• Fatty liver disease
• Some cancers
• Infertility
• Erectile dysfunction
• Skin problems
  

Being obese puts a severe strain on every part of your body, making your organs work too hard and placing your bones and joints under excessive pressure. Meanwhile, inactivity makes your muscles get weaker.

If you’re obese, the normal daily activities people take for granted, like washing, dressing, and walking, become a serious challenge. Many people who are obese have low self-esteem and develop problems like depression.

How is obesity treated?

If you’re overweight, you can find effective support and treatment at Vie Medical Center. The team can advise you on dietary and lifestyle changes to help you lose weight safely and steadily and keep it off in the future.

The providers can help you learn what foods to eat, how to shop and prepare healthy, nutritious meals, and how to manage food cravings. 

You also attend regular weigh-ins and health checks to ensure your weight loss plan is working and that your body is getting healthier.

To find out more, call Vie Medical Center today or book an appointment online.