Obesity

Obesity has become commonplace in our culture, yet it destroys the lives of hundreds of thousands of people each year.

Are You Obese?

Obesity is defined as:

• Being more than 20 percent over your ideal body weight (which is based on age, gender and activity level)
• Having more than 30 percent body fat for women and more than 25 percent body fat for men

The Reasons for Obesity

While the cause of obesity is simple – more calories consumed than burnt – the root of the disease is much more complex. Obesity can be caused by:

• Genetics
• Overeating
• Consuming too many high-fat, high-calorie foods
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Social and cultural expectations
• Emotional or psychological issues

Effects of Being Obese

Obesity is responsible for as many as 300,000 deaths each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Obese individuals are at increased risk for a number of complications, including:

• Heart Disease
• Stroke
• Diabetes
• Certain Types of Cancer
• High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
• Depression
• Complications in Pregnancy
• Eating Disorders

Obesity Treatment

Obese individuals often feel a profound sense of shame, loss and isolation. If you’re struggling with overweight or obesity, know that you are not alone and your quality of life can be dramatically improved. By learning new skills, adopting new lifestyle habits and engaging in therapy to address any underlying emotional issues, obesity treatment can save lives.