Obesity is bad for your health, which should no longer be a secret. In fact, premature death is 50% to 100% more common in people who are obese. Plus, the heavier someone gets, the more this chance increases. For many people, looking into bariatric procedures is the only viable option to help keep premature death at bay. Let’s review some of the associated health conditions.
Heart Disease
There are many types of heart disease, all of which are more common in the obese. The chance of developing such a disease is 70% higher in the obese. This is also because high blood pressure is so common, as is high cholesterol. All of this contributes to the chance of developing heart disease.
Stroke
The chance of having a stroke is 75% higher in someone who is obese than in a healthy weight individual. This is usually because of atherosclerosis, which is when the arteries narrow, leading to a blood clot. High cholesterol, high blood pressure, low levels of exercise, and smoking all increase this risk.
Type 2 Diabetes
Gaining just 11 to 18 pounds over the recommended weight doubles the chance of developing type 2 diabetes. 80% of people who have type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese. Those who are obese have a 400% increased chance of developing the illness.
Cancer
Obese individuals are at greater risk of various forms of cancer. This include kidney, prostate, gallbladder and colon cancer. Endometrial cancer and postmenopausal breast cancer is more common in obese women, particularly if they gained at least 20 pounds after they were 18.
Gallbladder Disease
Gallbladder disease, which includes gallstones, is very common in the obese. In fact, it has been proven that there is a direct link.
Fertility Issues
Women who are obese often find it much more difficult to reproduce. If they do fall pregnant, they are also more likely to have high birth weight babies. This means that it is more likely that they have to have a Cesarean section, with all the possible complications thereof. Death during delivery is also greatly increased in both mothers and babies and the chance of pregnancy related high blood pressure is increased tenfold.
Osteoarthritis
Because of the extra pressure weight places on the joints and bones, the chance of developing osteoarthritis is increase by 9% to 13% for every two pounds in extra weight.
Depression
Due to low self-esteem and low self-confidence, leading to social isolation, the obese have a greatly increased chance of depression.
Breathing Problems
Finally, the chance of having breathing problems, including asthma and sleep apnea is greatly increased in the obese.
Losing just 10 to 20 pounds can greatly improve someone’s overall health. The more you lose, the better your chances of living a long and healthy life. This demonstrates just how important it is for people to be committed to a healthy lifestyle, which includes a proper diet and exercise routine. Even if you have bariatric surgery, you have to have this commitment.
Photo credit : NYPOST
