The definition of obesity varies depending on what you read, but in general, it is a chronic condition defined by an excess amount body fat. A certain amount of body fat is necessary for storing energy, heat insulation, shock absorption, and other functions. The normal amount of body fat (expressed as percentage of body fat) is between 25-30% in women and 18-23% in men. Women with over 30% body fat and men with over 25% body fat are considered obese.
What are the health risks associated with obesity?
Obesity is not just a cosmetic consideration; it is a dire health dilemma directly harmful to one's health. In the
Type 2 (adult-onset) diabetes
High blood pressure (hypertension
High cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia)
Gout
Osteoarthritis (degenerative arthritis) of the knees, hips, and the lower back
What is the role of physical activity and exercise in obesity?
Physical activity and exercise help burn calories.
The amount of calories burned depends on the type, duration, and intensity of the activity. It also depends on the weight of the person. A 200-pound person will burn more calories running 1 mile than a 120-pound person, because the work of carrying those extra 80 pounds must be considered.
Jacqueline Green Personal Fitness Trainer will devise an exercise programme alongside a diet weight-loss programme tailor-made to your particular needs taking into consideration your current activity levels, your desired weight loss and your personal aims and goals.
Regular exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, although exercise alone without diet change will have a limited effect on weight as you require a deficit of 3500kcal to lose 1lb fat.
Other benefits of exercise include:
Improved blood sugar control and increased insulin sensitivity (decreased insulin resistance)
Reduced triglyceride levels and increased good HDL cholesterol levels
Lowered blood pressure
A reduction in abdominal fat
Reduced risk of heart disease. A study performed in men found those with moderate activity had a 23% lower risk of death than those who were less active.
These health benefits can occur independently (with or without) achieving weight loss