Image Credit: Ambro / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
According to the National Institute of Health (NIH) in the United States Obesity is an epidemic that impacts 1/3 of adults and 17% of children and teens.
People who are obese are at increased risk for serious health issues including:
- diabetes
- fatty liver disease
- cardiovascular disease, and
- reduced life expectancy.
The NIH states:
[O]besity disproportionately affects racial- and ethnic-minority populations as well as those who are socioeconomically disadvantaged. The high prevalence of obesity is thought to result from the interaction of genetic susceptibility with behaviors and environmental factors that promote increased calorie intake and sedentary lifestyles.
I personally am obese and it is a result of many factors including but not limited to thyroid issues and side effects of medication. I know first hand that obesity causes additional health risk factors and creates more and more struggles as time goes on. My doctor has required me to exercise more and to eat better so that hopefully I will lose weight to reduce my blood pressure.
Are you impacted by obesity? Is it hard to talk about? What tips do you have for me or others?
