Obesity is a common problem in our country because of several factors involved. It is a health condition determined by calculating body-mass index or BMI. This calculation requires an individual to find the ratio of weight and height.  Ideally, when the BMI of an individual goes beyond 35, they are declared morbidly obese.

Biological facts state that body must have only 20% fat to keep the organ systems healthy. However, when there is an imbalance in diet, physical activity, and hormones, the fat percentage will likely increase and harm the body.

Before understanding the treatment and prevention, it is essential to be aware of the origin of the problem. 

Causes and Risk Factors of Morbid Obesity

Every time you consume food, it reaches the body as calories for its utilisation. However, when the body receives sufficient calories for the day, it stores the extra calories as fat. As a result, the fat accumulates over time, making the person overweight.

One of the common myths related to morbid obesity is overeating and fat-rich components in the diet. However, there is more to morbid obesity than just unhealthy eating habits.

Below is a list of significant causes of morbid obesity:

1. Drugs: Since over-the-counter drugs are easily accessible to people, self-medication plays an essential role in creating an imbalance in the body system.

2. Hormones: Problems like PCOS and PCOD are significant causes of morbid obesity in females. Thus, it is crucial to keep the hormones in check.

3. Physical activity: In a tropical country like India, the climate is considerably warm, preventing people and children from doing sufficient physical activity. As a result, people live sedentary life and fail to maintain their ideal body weight.

Problems like morbid obesity reduce an individual’s age by 6-8 years. Additionally, it progresses to issues like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, joint pain, sleep apnea, asthma, and cancer. 

Treatment and Prevention of Morbid Obesity 

The two main pillars of preventing and treating morbid obesity are – physical activity and mindful eating. While there are other options like bariatric surgery to eliminate obesity, it is only suitable for people who have seen no significant results through exercise and dieting.

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1. Surgery and Medication

The two surgical options include gastric banding surgery and gastric bypass surgery. While the former method is related to limiting your appetite, the latter changes the way food travels through your stomach. As a result, the individual tends to eat less and consumes lesser calories.

In addition, there are weight loss drugs to help you get rid of excess fat from the body. However, doctors don’t suggest it frequently because it leads to sudden weight gain after the individual stops the medication.

2. Dietary Method 

Working with a dietitian and your specialist is essential to starting your weight loss journey to eliminate morbid obesity. Some habits that both doctors and dietitians recommend are: 

• Include more fruits, green vegetables, and fibre in your diet
• Divide your meals into smaller portions
• Be mindful of the number of calories you consume
• Limit the consumption of sugar, saturated fat, and trans fat

3. Physical Activity 

Doing physical exercise does not necessarily mean that you have to adopt a vigorous routine. You can start with something as simple as brisk walking and do it consistently. Below are some options to choose from several physical activities: 

• Brisk walking
• Slow jumping and jogging
• Swimming
• Biking
• Playing badminton
• Regular yoga sessions 

Summing up

The primary habit to adopt for preventing morbid obesity is to get yourself checked regularly. Calculating BMI, keeping track of vitals like blood pressure, breathing, and heart rate, and going for blood tests to prevent diabetes and high cholesterol are essential. 

Since many people feel weak after rigorous diet control, taking vitamin supplements is essential. This will ensure that you don’t suffer from anaemia and recover faster.

In light of the above facts, working towards a healthier lifestyle is beneficial in the long run. Even though healthy food and physical exercise are a minor part of life, it plays a significant role in fighting major health problems.

Moreover, a healthy and active lifestyle balances everything from hormones and metabolism to weight and vitals of the body.

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Medically Reviewed by Dr. Dhanunjay Reddy