First, I’d like to talk a little bit about obesity. Obesity is actually a disease, and it’s estimated that it affects over a quarter of the adults in the United States. It’s one that can cause serious health problems, and is, in fact, more damaging to your health than smoking or alcohol abuse. Associated with about 112,000 deaths each year in the US, obesity is a major risk factor in serious medical conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, respiratory problems, cancer, osteoarthritis and joint problems.

There’s sometimes confusion about the differences between the terms overweight and obese. Overweight and obesity are both labels for ranges of weight that are greater than what is generally considered healthy for a given height.  Excess weight may come from muscle, bone, fat and/or body water. Bodybuilders or athletes may be considered “overweight” because they have a lot more muscle, which is heavier and denser than normal tissue. But many people who are overweight are also obese. There are ranges in weight that have been shown to increase the likelihood of certain diseases and other health problems. One of the most severe stages of obesity which poses the most health risks is known as morbid obesity. Morbid obesity is defined as being at least 100 pounds overweight, or having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or greater. However, it’s important to understand that health risks begin to increase with a BMI of just 27. BMI is determined by a formula that divides your body weight by the square of your height in inches. Sound a little complicated? Just click on this link to see a chart that will show you your BMI.

Here’s where one of the big misconceptions comes in. Obesity doesn’t mean you’re out of control, or a weak person. It is a complex, chronic disease. Weight gain can be caused by a number of factors, including your eating and social habits, amount of physical activity, heredity, pregnancy, changes in metabolism, or even emotional stress. The good news is that it can be conquered.  In fact, medical studies have shown that losing weight not only greatly improves your overall health and lowers your risk of disease, but also can completely reverse and eliminate one of the biggest risks facing obese adults: Type 2 diabetes.

One of your most important partners as you move forward with your weight-loss plan is your doctor. He or she can guide you with diet and exercise advice and help you set realistic goals. And, I hope this blog will be another. Every week, I’ll be posting useful information, news and success stories that will help support you as you begin this great new phase in your life.